Library
-
Dogs can have misalignment of the teeth much like people. In people, orthodontic care can be used to perfect a pleasing smile or create a functional bite. In dogs, the goal is to make the mouth functional and pain free. Often this involves moving teeth, reducing the height of teeth, or extracting teeth.
-
A tooth root abscess develops when bacteria enter the exposed root canal of the tooth. The abscess may leak directly into the oral cavity or may leak out onto the skin. A tooth root abscess is painful and must be treated as soon as possible. Signs and diagnosis are discussed. Treatment options include root canal therapy or extraction.
-
A tooth root abscess develops when bacteria enter the exposed root canal of the tooth. The abscess may leak directly into the oral cavity or may leak out onto the skin. A tooth root abscess is painful and must be treated as soon as possible. Signs and diagnosis are discussed. Treatment options include root canal therapy or extraction.
-
Teething in puppies lasts from about 3 to 6 weeks of age and again from 12 to 24 weeks of age. Safe chew toys are an important source of energy release, but if puppies are not stimulated sufficiently, or supervised carefully, they will chew elsewhere. Occasionally, retained baby teeth or other dental abnormalities can occur that need to be addressed by your veterinarian. It is important to get your puppy used to having their mouth manipulated for exams and teeth brushing.
-
The American Animal Hospital Association and American Veterinary Medical Association have established guidelines to standardize preventive health care for cats, helping them to live longer, healthier lives. This handout provides an overview of the recommendations within these guidelines and why they are so important.
-
A persistent tooth is a deciduous (baby) tooth that is still present when the permanent tooth erupts. When this happens, the baby tooth occupies the place in the mouth that is meant for the permanent tooth, forcing the permanent tooth to erupt at an abnormal angle or in an abnormal position. The result is crowding or malposition of the tooth, causing an abnormal bite (malocclusion). Early extraction is advised.
-
A persistent tooth is a deciduous (baby) tooth that is still present when the permanent tooth erupts. When this happens, the baby tooth occupies the place in the mouth that is meant for the permanent tooth, forcing the permanent tooth to erupt at an abnormal angle or in an abnormal position. The result is crowding or malposition of the tooth, causing an abnormal bite (malocclusion). Early extraction is advised.
-
Dogs often break their teeth from chewing on bones, antlers, and hard chew toys. There are five classifications of tooth fractures and each needs treatment to avoid tooth sensitivity and pain. Clinical signs include chewing on one side of the mouth, excessive drooling, dropping food while eating, pawing at the mouth, and facial swelling. Your veterinarian may perform a root canal or extract the tooth. Eliminating hard chew toys and treats can prevent tooth fractures.
-
Gingival hyperplasia is the abnormal growth of excessive gum tissue. The gums may appear reddened or inflamed and may become so enlarged that it is difficult to visualize the teeth. In some cases, gingival hyperplasia may be localized to specific areas and its appearance may mimic the appearance of a mass or tumor. Gingival hyperplasia is most commonly treated with the surgical removal of the excessive proliferative tissue, referred to as gingivoplasty. Although it results in a significant improvement in clinical signs, gingivoplasty does not typically cure the condition.
-
Enzymatic toothpaste (brand name C.E.T., others) is a product used at home by pet owners to aid in tooth brushing that minimizes plaque and tartar formation on the exterior of the tooth (the crown), and also assists in the maintenance of good oral hygiene. It can be used on both dogs and cats.