Traumatic Tooth Injury in Dogs
Dental fractures encompass injuries to a dog’s teeth that result in damage to the enamel, dentin, and cement. These injuries can affect either the enamel-covered upper section of the tooth (known as the crown) or the portion below the gum line (referred to as the root).
Both dogs and cats can experience traumatic tooth injuries.
Symptoms and Types
The primary complication associated with a tooth fracture is inflammation and infection. Sometimes, the crown of the tooth may be absent, and there might be the presence of blood or pink tissue in or around the affected area. Dogs experiencing root fractures typically exhibit persistent discomfort and pain.
Causes
A traumatic event or injury is typically the primary cause of a tooth fracture. For example, a tooth might break due to chewing on a hard object, experiencing blunt force trauma to the face, or being involved in a minor automobile collision.
Diagnosis
To assess the complete extent of the tooth fracture, your veterinarian will conduct X-rays of your dog’s mouth. Additionally, a thorough oral examination will be performed to evaluate your dog’s overall oral health.
Treatment
The course of treatment will vary based on the extent and severity of the dog’s trauma. To repair the damaged tooth, crowns and other dental procedures may be employed, including surgery for severe damage. If the tooth or root cannot be repaired, extraction may be advised, followed by sealing the affected area with a restorative material or lining.
In many instances, it is recommended to limit the dog’s activities until full recovery. During this period, the dog’s diet should primarily comprise moist food items.
Living and Management
Monitoring your dog’s progress after treatment is crucial, along with maintaining regular tooth care and cleaning. Routine brushing or cleaning of the teeth can help detect any damage or irritation to the gums.
The most frequent complications include infection or the necessity for a follow-up root canal procedure.
Prevention
Avoid allowing your dog to chew on extremely hard substances like rocks, as this can harm the tooth’s structure or lead to tooth breakage. Dogs that roam freely are at a greater risk compared to those kept in a contained, safe environment.