My dog has red gums, bad breath, and lost a tooth. What can I do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 9 years and 10 months old | 20 lbs
Hi, My female dog seems to have periodontal disease. I researched the stages and it looks like she has stage 3, but I'm not sure. She has red inflamed gums and bad breath, which online says it's a sign of gingival hyperplasia. I pulled her gums back even more than what they are in my pictures, and it looked exactly like it. She lost her front middle tooth and there was very slight bleeding but the tooth was verytiny and white and had ZERO decaying on it which makes me confused. What can be done?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on May 8th, 2020
Hello. Suzy will really benefit from a professional cleaning. I would locate a veterinary dentist in your area & have this done as soon as possible. Bad teeth like this can lead to a deteriorating health as bacteria are constantly showering her blood stream because of the infection in her mouth. Go to https://www.avdc-dms.org or talk to your veterinarian about scheduling a procedure. Thanks for contacting PetCoach.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on April 12th, 2018
Dogs need regular dental care just like humans, and yes if her teeth are badly infected, they could fall out. In addition, severe dental disease can and does lead to infection spreading elsewhere in the body via the blood system and cause things such as liver abscesses and endocarditis (a heart infection). It's very clear that her teeth are hurting if she won't eat anything hard and doesn't want you to look at her mouth. She absolutely needs to see a vet for this problem, and I would call your vet today to make an appointment for her. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on May 2nd, 2018
Poor Bel! She likely has some dental disease and an infected tooth. I would give her soft food until you can get her in to see you vet. She may be uncomfortable but I do not recommend to give her any human pain meds as most are toxic to dogs. I would have your vet take a look at her. They will likely prescribe her some pain meds and possibly some antibiotics. Depending on her age, health condition and the condition of her teeth, they may or may not recommend a dental. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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