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:

Specialist Veterinary Dental Services

A comprehensive range of dental and oral surgery treatments.

Contact Us    refer a patient

Removing complex teeth safely and with minimal impact.

Preserving teeth by cleaning and sterilising infected pulp chambers

Precise management for intricate anaesthetics, enhancing safety

Preserving teeth that have damaged pulp through trauma

Detailed imaging with Dental X-rays and CT scans for accurate diagnosis

Cleaning pockets of plaque and tartar, promoting oral health

Performing expert, precise surgical procedures for oral issues

Restoring function and alignment with expert diagnosis and repair.

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.

Jessica Ramsay

2 months ago

The care and compassion both Bec and Aaron show towards their patients and clients is above and beyond. I’ve had the pleasure of dealing with the whole AAD team including the wonderful admin team Bryl and Hayley. They make the whole experience from booking the appointment to discharge a pleasant experience and the follow up phone calls the day after procedure shows how much they really care about your pet and any concerns you may have. Would highly recommend these guys for any animal dental treatment.

Steph A

Tessa Orr

So grateful to Dr Aaron for taking the absolute BEST care of our 13 year old boy Chopper! We honestly wouldn’t go anywhere else for his teeth. Dr Aaron is EXTREMELY knowledgeable, so kind and caring! I am quite the worrier as my boy is my baby and his little teeth are super worn from years of chewing/playing with tennis balls. Dr Aaron really gave us the time to listen to all of our concerns and go over everything so thoroughly. My partner and I came into the consult anxious and stressed and left feeling completely at ease knowing Chopper was in the absolute best hands! We are forever grateful for the high quality care and compassion Dr Aaron provided…..

Tessa Orr

A month ago

cont… Also a massive thank you to Bryliiana for dealing with us over the phone these past few years, answering my many questions and never making me feel rushed or of an annoyance. There were quite the few worried phone calls. I HIGHLY recommend Advanced Animal Dentistry to anyone and everyone! It really is such a professional and quality practice! Thank you so much Dr Aaron and Bryliiana for the amazing work you guys do! Thank you for taking such great care of our boy!

dazz boyd

A month ago

Dr Aaron and Brylliana give our boy Chopper exceptional care every visit.

They both give us a lot of extra time and relive all our concerns over the phone and in person and never make us feel like we are a bother. They go out of their way to put us at ease with any questions we have and always make us feel like they have the time to reassure us in every way possible.

I would recommend them to anyone considering using them, 11 out of 10.

Thank you both of you for your amazing care!

Ka Lei Lau

A month ago

Dr Aaron cared for our GSD who had fractured her teeth. The team were able to fit us in within a day for surgery and Dr Aaron’s calm bedside manner was (amazingly) able to calm our very anxious, highly strung dog who typically hates a vet surgery environment. Excellent follow up care and communication, it’s clear the team genuinely cares for animals. Surgery was very professionally done and the price was fair and reasonable for specialised expertise. We are very pleased, thank you for such compassionate care for our pup. If only Dr Aaron could be our regular vet!

Amber Owen

A month ago

Dr Bec is amazing! I really feel like my dog is safe with her and I am a very protective and nervous dog mum. My dog also had a really nice recovery and was very comfortable after his tooth removal (due to a nasty abscess). I would definitely recommend Dr Bec and the team to anyone who wants high end care for their pets.

Gregory Cuff

A month ago

Staff were absolutely wonderful, the help and advice we received was fantastic

Zoe Hyde

A month ago

Bec has done surgery on both my beloved cat and dog and she is such a kind, thorough and talented Dentist! The communication is superb, level of care, and pain relief is brilliant. I completely trust my animals in her hands and am very grateful for her and all of the team’s care 🙂

Whitney Hansen

A month ago

Advanced Animal Dentistry took amazing care of my girl, Polly, and made sure she got lots of cuddles. Will definitely be going back.

Matt & Rochelle Lloyd

A month ago

Absolutely amazing the price for surgery is reasonable.
I drive all the way from Glasshouse Mountains just to there..

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.