Epulis is a tumour in the gum tissue that covers the dog’s teeth. The tumor originally comes from the tissue that binds the teeth to the jaw bone. There are benign tumors. They appear to invade adjacent oral tissue and involve the removal of tumor growth and surrounding tissue. It can also contribute to the removal of all or part of the jawbone. Most epulis tumors occur in dogs older than six years of age, and Boxers tend to be slightly susceptible to developing these growths.
Signs Associated With An Epulis
Epulis can be detected during an oral veterinary examination before any symptoms occur on your pet. The tumor is generally the same color as the gum tissue and have a smooth or rough surface. As the epulis enlarges, your pet can drool, have a bad breath, bleed out of the area, and lose its appetite. More than one epulis is always present.
Diagnostic Tests For Epulis
After you provide the veterinarian a full medical history of your dog, they will perform a detailed oral examination, which may show an epulide. If present, X-rays will be used to identify the form of epulis and to verify the health of the teeth around the epulis. The portion of the epulis must also be cut down to the bone to be submitted to the laboratory for examination. This is usually accomplished when the dog is anaesthetized.
Treatment Options For Epulis
Surgical removal of epulis is the most widely prescribed procedure. It can also require the extraction of damaged teeth. Failure to remove all affected tissues can allow the tumor to grow back. If the epulis is very large, particularly if it is an acanthomatous epulis, large parts of the jaw bone and several teeth can be removed to increase the likelihood of a cure. In cases of bone invasion requiring comprehensive reconstructive surgery, your veterinarian may recommend referral to a surgeon or oncologist. Epulides do not normally react to chemotherapy. Radiation therapy is also prescribed for large acanthomatous epulides.
Home Care And Prevention For Epulis
It is very important that you follow the directions given by your veterinarian. In certain cases, a soft diet and special oral rinses would be helpful. The prognosis can vary depending on the type, location, size and ability to remove the epulis. The prevention of epulis is not known.
