Just like humans, dogs and cats can suffer from broken or fractured teeth. While it might seem minor at first glance, a fractured tooth can cause significant pain and infection and even impact your pet’s overall health if left untreated. Whether caused by trauma, chewing on hard objects or an accident, addressing dental fractures in pets is crucial for maintaining their well-being.
In this blog, we’ll discuss what every pet owner needs to know about fractured teeth in dogs and cats.
How Do Teeth Get Fractured?
There are various ways your pet might break a tooth, and it’s not always as apparent as you’d think. Some of the most common causes include:
- Chewing on Hard Objects: Many dogs love chewing on bones, antlers, or other hard toys. While this might seem like a fun and natural activity, the objects can be too harsh for their teeth, leading to fractures.
- Accidents and Trauma: Just like humans, pets can experience accidents—whether a fall, a blow to the face, or other forms of trauma that can result in tooth damage.
- Biting on Something Unexpected: Sometimes, pets accidentally chomp down on something they shouldn’t—like a rock or piece of metal—causing a tooth to fracture.
- Dental Disease: Pets with poor dental health or underlying periodontal disease may have weaker teeth, making them more prone to breaks and fractures.
Signs Your Pet May Have a Fractured Tooth
Unlike us, pets can’t tell us when their teeth hurt. That’s why it’s essential to watch for subtle signs that could indicate a fractured tooth. These include:
- Pawing at the mouth or face: If your pet constantly paws at their mouth, this could be a sign of dental pain.
- Difficulty eating: Broken teeth can make eating painful for pets. If you notice your pet eating less or favoring one side of its mouth, it’s time to check for dental issues.
- Drooling or bleeding: Excessive drooling, especially with blood present, can indicate a fractured or damaged tooth.
- Behavioral changes: A usually happy pet might become irritable or withdrawn if they’re experiencing tooth pain.
If you spot any of these signs, it’s best to seek veterinary care immediately. A fractured tooth can be more than just painful—it can lead to infection, which could spread to other areas of the body if untreated.
The Importance of Treating Fractured Teeth
When a pet’s tooth fractures, the sensitive pulp inside the tooth can be exposed. This pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, making the tooth extremely painful and vulnerable to infection. Bacteria entering the pulp chamber can lead to an abscess or more severe dental complications. Left untreated, the infection can spread through the bloodstream, affecting your pet’s overall health.
Some pet owners may wonder if fractured teeth will heal independently, but unfortunately, that’s not the case. Once a tooth is fractured, it needs professional care to prevent further complications. Ignoring the problem can lead to more pain for your pet and potentially costlier treatments down the road.
Treatment Options for Fractured Teeth
At Veterinary Dental Care, we’re dedicated to providing the best treatment for your pet’s dental health. Depending on the severity of the fracture, there are a few options for treating broken teeth:
- Dental Bonding or Crowns: For minor fractures, bonding or placing a crown can help restore the tooth and protect it from further damage.
- Root Canal Therapy: If the tooth’s pulp is exposed, a root canal may be necessary to clean out the infection and save the tooth.
- Tooth Extraction: In some cases, a severely damaged tooth may need to be removed. While extraction is usually the last resort, it can relieve your pet’s pain and prevent further health issues.
Each case is unique, so it’s essential to consult with a veterinary dentist to determine the best course of action for your pet’s fractured tooth.
Preventing Tooth Fractures in Dogs and Cats
Prevention is always better than treatment, and there are a few steps you can take to help reduce the risk of tooth fractures in your pet:
- Avoid Hard Chews: While dogs love bones, antlers, and other hard toys, these can easily cause tooth fractures. Opt for softer chews that are safer for their teeth.
- Supervise Playtime: Accidents happen, but keeping an eye on your pet during playtime can help prevent them from biting down on dangerous objects or getting into trouble.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Routine dental exams can help identify potential dental problems before they become serious problems. At Veterinary Dental Care, we recommend scheduling regular checkups to keep your pet’s teeth in top shape.
Trust the Charleston Veterinary Dentist Team at Veterinary Dental Care in Charleston, SC
Your pet’s dental health is as important as any other aspect of their well-being. If you suspect your dog or cat has fractured a tooth, don’t wait—seek professional veterinary care to address the problem and keep your pet comfortable and healthy. At Veterinary Dental Care, we’re here to help with specialized treatments and a team of experienced professionals who care about your pet’s happiness and oral health. each out today to schedule an appointment.