The ache of tooth fractures

The ache of tooth fractures


Fractured teeth are common in our pets, especially in dogs. The most common causes are blunt trauma or damage from chew toys, such as animal bones, antlers or hooves; nylon bones or, a new addition to the list, slabs of hardened yak’s milk.

Most fractures are deep enough to expose the sensitive part of the tooth, the pulp, and cause one doozy of a toothache. Many pets are too stoic to show signs of the pain, while an untreated tooth fracture leads to infection or death of the tooth.

Sometimes plaque will cover a tooth fracture, but the damage is visible on dental X-rays or once the teeth are cleaned. If the pulp is exposed, the only two options to relieve pain are a root canal or tooth extraction.

Regularly scheduled dentist visits will detect tooth fractures and relieve those festering toothaches. Your pet will thank you for it.

 

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