Canker Of The Mouth is an individual affection induced directly by a decayed tooth, or a diseased state of the jaw bone.

Symptoms

Attention is usually first attracted by a swelling on the jaw over or beneath the part diseased. This swelling finally bursts, discharging matter and blood of a very offensive odor. The parts affected are very painful, and usually much difficulty will be experienced before a thorough examination is made.

After the abscess has burst, a fistulous opening remains that will never permanently close until the diseased bone or tooth, is removed. A discharge will persist having the same offensive character. Eventually, a fetid ulcer forms on the gums and cheek of a gangrenous character, bleeding easily at the slightest touch. The pain and difficulty in eating tend to exhaust the animal which becomes weakened and emaciated.

Treatment

Whatever the cause it must first be removed. If a decayed tooth and it is extracted, the trouble will probably disappear. If the bone of the jaw be diseased, then the dog should be etherized, the gum laid open and the affected portion removed. The bleeding growths and ulcerations may then be well burned with the nitrate of silver and afterwards be treated with the tincture of myrrh. The general health must not be overlooked. The diet should be generous; milk, broths, raw eggs, meat, and if need be, tonics must be administered; cod liver oil in tablespoonful doses, is advised if the animal is emaciated. If digestive disorders are present, the elicir of bark, pepsin and bismuth, one teaspoonful three times daily, is indicated. If glandular enlargement under the jaw remains, the syrup of the iodide . iron is an appropriate remedy.