Breakups happen to the best of teeth, in dogs and in cats. Just like dating relationships, the fractures can be caused by trauma or repeated stress. Broken teeth are very common, and need to be treated to avoid further issues down the road.
Clean Break. An uncomplicated crown fracture is when the outer layer of the tooth, called enamel or dentin, is broken. It can be painful if dentinal tubules are exposed. Since these little channels lead through the enamel to the nerves inside the tooth, they can also allow bacteria to penetrate and cause infection. The rough surface of a broken tooth can also accelerate periodontal disease.
Messy Break. Sometimes a breakup extends down to the nerve, leaving the pulp of the tooth painfully exposed, and susceptible to oral bacteria penetrating. The infection can build up under the tooth root, causing a tooth root abscess.
Keeping Up Appearances. Just because you don’t see a break doesn’t mean there isn’t a problem below the gumline. Dental exploration and radiographs are necessary for comprehensive examination of a fractured tooth, even uncomplicated fractures. That’s why it’s so important to have regular dental evaluations with us!
Getting Back Together. Thankfully, fixing a broken tooth is a lot easier than fixing a broken relationship. Uncomplicated fractures are treated on a case-by-case basis based on dental exploration and radiographs. Any complicated fracture should be treated via either extraction or root canal therapy. Root canal therapy would require referral to a veterinary dentist.
The best way to make sure that your pet’s teeth last a lifetime is to have regular oral evaluations with us. To evaluate any dental concerns, we’ll start with a physical examination. If we need to perform a deeper evaluation we’ll make a plan tailored to your pet’s needs which may include anesthesia, full oral radiographs, detailed dental mapping, and/or complete oral examination under sedation.
Call us today to schedule your dental evaluation. Think of it as relationship counseling for your pet’s teeth!
