Fractured/Broken Teeth

Dental injury types & consequences

Just like humans, pets are susceptible to various dental injuries throughout their lives. In younger animals, issues like enamel hypoplasia and developmental malformations are common, often due to early trauma. As pets age, they may experience fractures, internal tooth trauma or even tooth loss, which can significantly affect their overall wellbeing.

Injuries to a tooth can have severe repercussions, particularly if the pulp—the tooth’s living tissue—is damaged. Exposed or compromised pulp can lead to complications such as painful infections and abscesses.

“Damage to the pulp can lead to painful infections if not treated promptly.”

Treatment options & timeliness

Treatment for dental injuries varies depending on the type and severity of the damage. Options may include fillings, vital pulpotomy, root canal therapy or in severe cases, extraction of the damaged tooth. These treatments aim to relieve pain, prevent infection and maintain oral health.

Prompt treatment of dental injuries is essential to prevent pain and further health issues. Untreated damage, especially involving the pulp, can lead to severe discomfort and complications. Pet owners should seek immediate veterinary dental care if they notice signs of tooth damage in their pets.

“Early treatment plays a key role in preventing complications and preserving oral health.”

Additional information regarding damaged teeth

For more details on topics associated with damaged teeth, refer to the following pages:

FAQs

What are the most common types of dental injuries in pets?

Pets can experience a range of dental injuries depending on their age and history. Younger animals may develop enamel hypoplasia or other developmental issues, while older pets are more likely to suffer fractures, internal tooth trauma or tooth loss. These conditions can affect both comfort and overall oral health.

Why is damage to the pulp in a fractured tooth serious?

The pulp contains the living tissue of the tooth, including nerves and blood vessels. When it is exposed or damaged, it can lead to painful infections and abscess formation. Without treatment, this can significantly impact a pet’s wellbeing.

What treatment options are available for fractured or broken teeth?

Treatment depends on the extent of the damage and may include fillings, vital pulpotomy, root canal therapy or extraction. Each option is selected based on whether the tooth can be preserved and how the pulp has been affected. The goal is to relieve pain, prevent infection and support ongoing oral health.

How quickly should a fractured tooth be treated?

Dental injuries should be assessed and treated as soon as possible to reduce the risk of complications. Delays can allow infection to develop, especially if the pulp is involved. Early intervention plays an important role in preserving the tooth and preventing further issues.

What signs might indicate a pet has a damaged tooth?

Signs of dental injury can vary but may include visible fractures, changes in tooth colour or difficulty eating. Some pets may show discomfort when chewing or avoid food altogether. Any indication of tooth damage should prompt a veterinary dental assessment.

Key Takeaways

Common Dental Injuries

Pets can experience a range of dental injuries, from developmental issues in younger animals to fractures, internal trauma and tooth loss as they age.

Impact on Tooth Vitality

Damage to the pulp, the living part of the tooth, can lead to infection, abscess formation and significant discomfort if left untreated.

Range of Treatment Options

Veterinary dental treatments may include fillings, vital pulpotomy, root canal therapy or extraction, depending on the severity of the injury.

Importance of Timely Care

Prompt treatment is essential to reduce pain, prevent complications and support ongoing animal oral health.

Next steps

For Pet Owners

Are you concerned about your pet’s dental health? Call 1300 866 848 or fill out the contact form. We’ll coordinate with your primary vet to ensure the best outcome.

For Vets & Nurses

We’re here to help. If you’d like to refer a patient, please call us at 1300 866 848 , complete the referral form or email us with a brief case summary, relevant radiographs and lab results.

For advice and treatment guidance, email us with a brief case summary, relevant radiographs and lab results.

 


Refer a Patient Contact Us

Advanced Veterinary Dental Services

A comprehensive range of dental and oral surgery treatments.

Contact Us    Refer A Patient
Complex Anaesthesia

We assess each patient individually, considering their health history, age and any concurrent medical conditions, to tailor the anaesthetic approach to their specific needs.

Surgical Extractions

Removing complex teeth safely and with minimal impact.

Vital Pulpotomy

A vital pulpotomy is a time-sensitive procedure used to preserve the life of a tooth when the pulp becomes exposed due to trauma or dental treatment.

Jaw Fractures

Jaw fractures in pets require precise treatment to restore both structure and function, with a strong focus on proper bite alignment.

Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal treatment goes beyond routine dental care to address the deeper damage caused by advanced gum disease.

Oral Surgery

Pet oral surgery can help treat dental problems, injuries, and other conditions affecting your pet’s mouth. Learn about the available procedures and how they can improve your pet’s comfort and oral health.

Dental and Oral Imaging

Dental and oral imaging helps veterinarians identify dental problems that may not be visible during a routine examination. Learn how these imaging techniques support accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for your pet.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy can help save a damaged or infected tooth while relieving pain in pets. Learn how this dental procedure works and how it can help preserve your pet’s natural teeth and oral health.

Gingivoplasty

This procedure involves reshaping gum tissue to guide the eruption of canine teeth into a correct position, preventing traumatic occlusion and avoiding more invasive treatments.

Crown Height Reduction

Reducing the height of misaligned canine teeth and protecting the exposed pulp with a filling helps prevent chronic pain, preserve jaw structure and avoid extraction.

Inclined Plane – Crown Extensions

Orthodontic appliances like inclined planes or crown extensions can reposition misaligned canine teeth, preventing trauma and preserving tooth function without altering their shape.

Dog Braces (Orthodontics)

To address mesioverted  (‘lanced’ maxillary canine teeth) and manage linguoversion when the maxillary diastema (the space between the third incisor and canine teeth) is too narrow.

Restorations

Restorative dentistry repairs damaged teeth in pets, often using crowns, veneers and fillings. These procedures restore dental structure and function, ensuring long-term oral health.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Thorough cleaning and examination under anesthesia remove plaque and calculus, preventing periodontal disease and ensuring long-term oral health in pets.

Mandibulectomies and Maxillectomies

These surgeries involve partial or complete removal of the jaw to treat malignant oral tumours. Treatment options vary and may include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation.

Crown Amputation for Tooth Resorption

This procedure, often used for tooth resorption, involves removing the tooth crown while leaving the resorbing root remnant intact. It’s less invasive and used in cases where traditional extraction is no longer possible. Regular follow-up is recommended.