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What's wrong with my dog's tooth and gums? Is it a dental infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 3 months old | 59 lbs

What is this? Is it caries

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 29th, 2019

I'm not sure what you mean by "it caries" - definitely try to repost with more description if I don't hit on the answer you need, but it looks like there is a moderate amount of tartar on that molar, and possible a draining tract up in to the gums, which would be caused by an infection of the tooth root. It's possible that part of the tooth is broken under the tartar and we just can't see it. I would recommend scheduling a vet visit to have this looked at it.

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Ouch! Poor Soska! It looks like Soska may have a gap between her gums and her teeth. These types of "pockets" can be very painful, and can indicate infection under the gumline. The roots of the affected teeth may not be stable, meaning that Soska may need to have the affected tooth/ teeth removed. Please make an appointment to have her seen by your vet for further evaluation and treatment, and see the link below for more information http://www.vohc.org/veterinary_periodontal_disease.html

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