Lip Entrapment

Lip entrapment is a condition we commonly see in feline patients, typically occurring after the extraction of a maxillary canine tooth.

Understanding Lip Entrapment in Cats

Cats have relatively tight upper lips compared to dogs. The maxillary canine tooth helps hold the lip outward, preventing the mandibular canine tooth from slipping inside and causing trauma when the mouth closes. Without the maxillary canine, the upper lip can droop inward, leading to the lower canine tooth contacting, trapping and potentially traumatising the upper lip.

While some cases of lip entrapment may cause minimal concern and be noticed intermittently, others can result in significant trauma, including hair loss, lip thickening, chronic ulceration, and eosinophilic granuloma formation. In such cases, treatment of the mandibular canine tooth is necessary to address the trauma.

“Lip entrapment isn’t just uncomfortable — repeated trapping can cause ongoing pain and delayed healing.”

Available Treatment options

When treatment is necessary, two approaches are available:

Reduction of the mandibular canine tooth height, followed by endodontic therapy such as root canal treatment or vital pulpotomy.
Extraction of the mandibular canine tooth.

Both options can relieve trauma to the upper lip.

The most suitable treatment depends on various factors and should be discussed after a thorough examination.

“Once the source of lip entrapment is corrected, most pets recover quickly and return to normal comfort.”

Preventing & Managing the condition

Ideally, preventing trauma involves preserving the maxillary canine tooth whenever possible. However, conditions like advanced periodontal disease and tooth resorption may necessitate extraction, leading to potential complications such as lip entrapment.

Predicting which patients will experience lip entrapment after maxillary canine extraction can be challenging.

For those who do encounter this issue, treatment options are available to enhance their comfort and quality of life.

Meet the Author

Bec Tucker

Specialist Veterinary Dentist – BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (Small Animal Dentistry and Oral Surgery) 
Diplomate, American Veterinary Dental College™

Hi, I’m Dr Bec Tucker, and my journey into veterinary dentistry has been unexpected yet incredibly fulfilling. In fact, dentistry wasn’t on my radar at all when I graduated with a BVSc (Hons) from the University of Sydney in 2007. I was fortunate to meet veterinarians who had found their passion for dentistry, and their encouragement and enthusiasm shifted my perspective. Through continuing education lectures and workshops, I went from not fancying dentistry and oral surgery to genuinely loving it.

FAQs

What is lip entrapment in pets, and how would I know if my pet has it?

Lip entrapment occurs when part of a pet’s lip becomes caught against a tooth, most commonly after a canine tooth extraction. This repeated trapping can cause irritation, ulceration, drooling, and visible discomfort when your pet closes their mouth.

Why does lip entrapment happen after a tooth extraction, and could it have been prevented?

Lip entrapment usually occurs when an upper canine tooth is removed, and the lip loses its natural support. The opposing lower canine may then catch the lip during normal mouth movement. It’s a recognised complication rather than a mistake, and early assessment can reduce long-term issues.

What signs suggest lip entrapment is causing ongoing pain rather than mild irritation?

Persistent redness, open sores on the lip, excessive drooling, reluctance to eat, or pawing at the mouth often indicate the lip is being repeatedly traumatised and isn’t healing on its own.

Will lip entrapment resolve on its own, or does it usually need treatment?

While very mild cases may improve with monitoring, most cases require veterinary treatment. Without intervention, the constant friction can lead to chronic pain, infection, and delayed healing.

What treatment options are available for pet lip entrapment, and will my pet recover fully?

Treatment may involve minor surgical correction or adjusting the opposing tooth so the lip is no longer trapped. Once corrected, most pets heal quickly and return to normal comfort and function.

Key Takeaways

Lip entrapment is a dental complication, not just a cosmetic issue

It can cause repeated trauma to the lip, leading to pain, ulceration, and ongoing discomfort if left untreated.

It most commonly occurs after canine tooth extractions

When the natural support of the lip is lost, the opposing tooth can trap the lip during normal mouth movement.

Persistent symptoms signal the need for veterinary assessment

Redness, sores, drooling, or changes in eating behaviour usually indicate the condition isn’t resolving on its own.

Treatment is typically straightforward and highly effective

Once the source of entrapment is corrected, most pets recover quickly and regain normal comfort and function.

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.

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