I'm really hoping someone here can help give me some advice or reassurance. I'm kind of freaking out right now. Yesterday, I noticed something odd when brushing my dog Max's teeth. There's this weird, fleshy-looking growth on his upper gums near one of his back molars. At first, I thought it was just something stuck there, but after trying to gently clean it, I realized it was actually part of his gum. It's about the size of a pea and seems to be bothering him a little, as he hasn't been as enthusiastic about his chew toys as he normally is. Max is almost 5, so I’m concerned because I've never seen anything like this before. I plan on calling the vet first thing tomorrow, but I can't help but worry. Does anyone have any ideas on what this could be or if it's something common? Thanks so much in advance!
Hello! I’m sorry to hear about the weird growth on your dog’s teeth. Let’s try to get to the bottom of it together.
There are a few possibilities for what this growth could be. It might be something harmless like a plaque buildup, which is quite common and can appear as a soft, film-like substance. However, if it seems more like a solid lump or bump, it might be an oral mass such as an epulis or even, in some cases, a more serious growth that needs veterinary attention. Oral tumors, though less common, can also appear as growths and sometimes require further investigation.
At home, it might be helpful to gently brush your dog’s teeth using a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste to see if the growth loosens at all. If your dog lets you, have a closer look to note its size, color, and if it appears to be bothering your pet when they eat or play.
Keep an eye out for warning signs like difficulty eating, bleeding, drooling, or bad breath, as these could indicate a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.
I recommend setting up a video consult with us at Dial A Vet so we can visually assess the growth and advise you on the best next steps. We're here to help ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy!
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