There are some situations where your dog's tooth has become so damaged or decayed that it cannot be saved. Our West Chester vets are here to tell you what you can expect from your dog's tooth extraction.
Dog Dental Extractions
A tooth extraction is when a tooth needs to be removed by a vet because it is too badly damaged or decayed. To ensure your dog is comfortable during this procedure, they will be put under general anesthesia. This is also so that our veterinary team remains safe uring this procedure as well.
Why Removing Dogs Teeth Is Sometimes Nessesary
In most cases, a dog will have to have a tooth removed due to decay or advanced gum disease caused by poor oral hygiene. When a tooth is damaged beyond repair, it is important to remove it to prevent infection and pain caused by the decayed tooth.
After your dog has its diseased tooth or teeth extracted, you will want to talk to your vet about the proper home dental care for your dog so you can prevent its other teeth from becoming decayed. You should also be sure to bring your dog in for regular professional dental cleanings and examinations. Good dental care is essential to your pup's oral and overall health.
Besides the common cause of gum disease and decay, your dog may also need a tooth removed for the following reasons:
- Fractured or broken teeth - Broken teeth can lead to painful abscesses and infections in your dog's mouth.
- Deciduous teeth - Baby teeth that do not fall out on their own may require extraction.
- Oral tumors - The treatment of tumors may involve the extraction of nearby teeth.
- Orthodontic abnormalities - Just like humans, sometimes dogs can have teeth growing where they shouldn't.
Your Dogs Recovery After A Tooth Extraction
Teeth all are held into our mouths by roots. In dogs, as many as three roots can be holding an individual tooth. To fully extract a tooth, all roots must be removed.
Your dog will be placed under general anesthesia so they are essentially sleeping and feeling no pain during their dental surgery. When they wake up they may be groggy or lethargic for the remainder of the day - this is completely normal.
Recovery after this type of procedure is generally pretty quick so you should be able to bring your pet home on the same day. If your pet eats hard kibble, you will want to soften it in warm water for the next few days before giving it to your dog. You should also avoid playing any tugging games with your dog until their mouth has completely healed, which typically takes around 2 weeks.
You may also notice traces of blood in your dog's saliva. While this is normal, there should not be any significant bleeding. If there is, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.