Section: Overview
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gum tissue resulting in redness and swelling, most commonly caused by dental plaque. Plaque results when bacteria normally found in the mouth mix with proteins and starches found in saliva to produce a gritty material that adheres to the teeth. Plaque eventually turns into tartar, which accumulates on the teeth, especially at the gum line. Local irritants and some diseases, such as plasmacytic gingivitis and trench mouth, may also cause gingivitis.Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis or inflammation around the tooth root, which in turn can lead to tooth loss.What to Watch ForThe main symptom of gingivitis is red or swollen gums.DiagnosisDiagnostic tests are needed to recognize gingivitis and exclude other diseases. Tests may include:
Dental disease, specifically periodontal disease, is the most common disease affecting dogs.
A dental, also sometimes called a "prophy" or prophylaxis, is professional cleaning and polishing of a dog's teeth. Performed under general anesthesia, a dental prophy may be necessary once a year.
Most people are aware of typical doggie breath, but when that breath becomes halitosis, or bad breath, tartar is often the cause. Other more serious diseases can also result in bad breath.
Periodontitis is the inflammation of the structures that support teeth, and it is caused by bacteria that make up plaque; it's one of the most common infectious diseases in dogs.
Ptyalism, or excessive salivation or drooling in dogs, may be normal in certain animals; however, when it is a sudden event that persists for an extended period of time, it is usually associated with illness...
The kidneys consist of many thousand microscopic filtering units called glomeruli that filter water and small substances from the bloodstream. Glomerulonephritis is inflammation of these microscopic filtering...
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