Oral tumors in dogs are abnormal growths that can develop in various parts of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, lips, palate, and salivary glands. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and they can vary in size, location, and aggressiveness.
Types of Canine Oral Tumors
Some common types of oral tumors in dogs include:
1. Melanoma: Melanomas are tumors that originate from pigment-producing cells and are typically malignant. Malignant melanomas can be aggressive and may metastasize to other parts of the body.
2. Squamous cell carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinomas are malignant tumors that commonly affect the gums, tongue, and tonsils. These tumors can be locally invasive and have the potential to spread to nearby tissues.
3. Fibrosarcoma: Fibrosarcomas are tumors that develop from fibrous tissue and can occur in the oral cavity. These tumors can be locally aggressive and may recur after surgical removal if the tumor is not completely excised.
4. Epulis: Epulis is a benign tumor that originates from the periodontal ligament or gingiva. While most epulis tumors are non-cancerous, they can grow to a size that interferes with eating or causes discomfort.
Signs Your Dog Has an Oral Tumor
Symptoms of oral tumors in dogs may include:
- Swelling or masses in the mouth
- Bad breath
- Drooling
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Loose teeth
- Changes in behavior or appetite
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of oral tumors in dogs typically involves a thorough physical examination, oral examination under sedation or anesthesia, imaging tests (such as radiographs and CT scans), and biopsy of the tumor for definitive diagnosis.
Treatment for oral tumors in dogs will depend on the type of tumor, its location, size, and whether it is benign or malignant. Treatment options may include surgical removal of the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and palliative care to manage symptoms and improve the dog’s quality of life.
Treating Pet Oral Tumors in Houston, Texas
Call our office today to schedule an oral examination and consultion to discuss the health of your dog’s mouth.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/12/2024). Photo by Lorca Wiles on Unsplash