Tooth Anatomy Diagram

If you think your pet may have a fractured tooth, see your veterinarian to find out what's going on and avoid further complications.

Fractured teeth are a common dental problem seen in dogs and cats, especially when pets chew on things they are not supposed to. Tooth fractures are a result of trauma and can also result from fights with other animals, accidents, or chewing on hard objects.

Fractures can range in severity and be quite painful for your pet. If the fracture is deep enough to have pulp exposure (exposure of the sensitive inner portion of the tooth), the tooth will need to be treated. If left untreated, fractured teeth can lead to infections and abscesses that may cause big issues for your pet.

Diagnosis

Your pet may or may not show signs of discomfort after fracturing a tooth.

Signs of pain include:

• chewing on only one side,
• dropping food while eating,
• pawing at their mouth,
• avoiding having their face touched,
• and swelling of the face, especially under the eye.

If you suspect that your pet has fractured a tooth, your veterinarian will need to perform an oral exam. Often, these fractures can be visualized by looking into the animal’s mouth. Note the image does not depict a fractured tooth.  If your pet will not tolerate an oral exam, your veterinarian may need sedation to get a clear look into the mouth.

Your veterinarian may also take X-rays (radiographs) to visualize the damage to your pet’s teeth further. Sometimes, fractures and the infections they cause are not well-defined at first glance and can be better seen using radiographs.

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Photo courtesy of Dr. Jan Bellows, DVM, DAVDC

Treatment

Treatment for a fractured tooth will depend on the severity of the fracture. Depending on the extent of the fracture, a minor chip that does not expose the pulp may be left alone and monitored yearly with X-rays and exams. However, if the sensitive layers of the tooth are exposed, root canal therapy can usually save the tooth unless the tooth is loose. In that case, your veterinarian will likely suggest an extraction. A board-certified veterinary dentist performs root canal therapy.

Tooth removal, if needed, takes place while your pet is under general anesthesia. Dental extractions are surgical procedures.

The best treatment for a fractured tooth varies between cases, and after evaluating the tooth, your veterinarian will be able to give you an appropriate plan for your pet.

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Photo Courtesy of Dr. Jan Bellows, DVM, DAVDC

Prevention/Prognosis:

The most effective way to prevent your pet from fracturing a tooth is to prevent them from chewing on hard materials. A good rule of thumb for determining if something is safe for your pet to chew on is to try to make an indent in the bone or toy with your thumbnail. If you can make an indent, it is likely safe for your pet to enjoy.

Daily at-home dental care, including brushing or dental chews, as accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC.org), is simple and effective for maintaining your pet’s dental health.

The prognosis for a fractured tooth is good. Once the tooth is extracted or treated with root canal therapy, your pet’s symptoms will likely disappear. Your veterinarian may prescribe pain medication for a few days after treatment for any post-operative discomfort your pet may have. Most pets make a full recovery following treatment of fractured teeth.