Help, I'm really worried and not sure what to do. I just noticed something odd in my dog's mouth this morning while brushing his teeth. There's this little bump on his gum that I swear wasn't there before. It looks sort of like a tiny pinkish thing just above his front teeth. He's been acting totally normal, eating fine and playing like usual, but this bump has me on edge. Has anyone else seen something like this with their dogs? Is it something I should be freaking out about, or am I overreacting? I'm thinking of calling the vet, but I don’t want to jump the gun if it’s nothing. Any advice or reassurance would really help right now!
Appreciate the question — let's unpack this. Noticing something growing on your dog's gum can definitely be concerning. These growths could be several things, most commonly benign tumors like epulis, which aren't cancerous but may require removal if they interfere with eating or comfort. Another possibility is gingival hyperplasia, which occurs when the gum tissue overgrows and can be a response to certain medications, though it sometimes happens naturally.
Sometimes, growths can signify more serious conditions like an oral tumor, which necessitates a veterinary evaluation. Look for signs such as bad breath, excessive drooling, difficulty eating, or bleeding from the mouth, as these can indicate that the growth is causing issues or might be serious.
At home, you can gently check your dog’s mouth to see if the growth is causing discomfort but avoid poking or prodding it too much. Maintaining good oral hygiene with regular brushing can also help prevent other dental issues.
If you observe any signs of pain, changes in eating habits, rapid growth, or if the growth bleeds easily, it’s important to get it checked out. I recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet so a professional can take a closer look and advise you on the best course of action.
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