Removing complex teeth safely and with minimal impact.
Ball therapy for pets involves encouraging play with a firm, appropriately sized ball to apply pressure on developing teeth, potentially correcting misaligned canines and preventing future issues.
How ball therapy helps correct alignment
Ball therapy is a treatment used to correct linguoverted mandibular canines (base narrow canines). This orthodontic method involves a removable, playful appliance. By holding an appropriately sized ball in the mouth, the resistance from biting applies a force to the teeth. This helps guide the developing canines into a better position, potentially preventing misalignment that can cause long-term trauma and discomfort.
The force applied to the mandibular canines through the ball can help adjust their alignment during development, ideally reducing future dental issues.
Of note this technique is only useful for a short period of time and only for actively erupting permanent mandibular canine teeth. It will not shift erupted deciduous teeth or mature permanent canine teeth.
Choosing the right ball for effective ball therapy
To effectively use ball therapy for correcting linguoverted mandibular canines, selecting the right ball is crucial. Opt for a ball that is dense yet slightly flexible. Tennis balls are too “squishy” and do not provide sufficient resistance, which means they apply minimal force to the teeth. Instead, choose balls made of materials like the rubber used in KONGs™.
These provide the right amount of resistance when bitten, delivering the necessary force to guide the developing canines into a more optimal position. The ball should be appropriately sized—not too big or too small—to ensure it exerts the right lateral tipping force on the mandibular canines as the dog carries it around.
Techniques to try
Ball therapy is most effective during the eruption of permanent mandibular canines, usually around 5 months of age. At this stage, the canines are actively moving through the bone and can be redirected with appropriate force. Encourage your dog to play with the ball as frequently as possible. It is recommended to use the ball for 15-minute intervals three times daily. Consistent use of the ball helps apply the necessary forces over time, improving the chances of proper alignment.
Note that ball therapy is generally not effective on deciduous teeth. To maximise the benefits, introduce the concept of ball therapy early if there is a risk of alignment issues with the permanent teeth. This early introduction avoids a potential training period during the crucial window when the permanent teeth erupt. While ball therapy may not always resolve the issue, it provides your pet with an engaging toy and may help prevent future dental problems.
