Accidents happen, and when dogs are full of energy, they sometimes result in unexpected injuries. Recently, our own Karma had a mishap while playing with her big brother Cooper. In her excitement, she ran into him, resulting in a broken incisor. Interestingly, this mirrors an incident from a few years ago when Cooper broke an incisor, too!
Why Are Broken Teeth a Concern?
A dog's tooth may break for many reasons—trauma, chewing on hard objects, or even just bad luck. When the break exposes the pulp (the sensitive inner part of the tooth), it becomes a serious issue. This exposure can lead to infection, swelling, pain, and other complications if not addressed promptly.
Is a Broken Tooth an Emergency?
While a broken tooth doesn’t always warrant a rush to an emergency vet, it does require prompt attention. If you notice any of the following symptoms, immediate action may be necessary:
- Swelling or redness around the mouth
- Bleeding gums or visible infection
- Signs of pain, such as pawing at the mouth or avoiding food
What Should You Do?
- Assess the Damage: Look for visible pulp or signs of discomfort. In Karma’s case, the break wasn’t severe enough to require immediate extraction, but we’re keeping a close eye on it.
- Book a Vet Visit: Even if it doesn’t seem urgent, a vet will determine the severity and decide the next steps.
- Plan for Treatment: Broken teeth often require extraction or, in some cases, a root canal if the tooth is to be saved.
What Happened to Karma and Cooper?
Cooper had his broken incisor extracted a few years ago, and recently, Karma broke hers during play. Thankfully, Karma’s break isn’t severe, and her vet recommended monitoring it for now.
We’ll be watching for signs of infection, such as swelling, grey or pinkish discolouration, or other changes. If any issues arise, the tooth will be extracted. Additionally, the vet will re-evaluate her tooth during her spay procedure to determine if extraction is necessary at that time.
Preventing Tooth Injuries in Dogs
- Choose the Right Chew Toys: Avoid hard bones or toys that can fracture teeth.
- Monitor Playtime: Dogs, especially energetic breeds like Belgian Malinois, can get carried away during play.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Keeping your dog’s teeth in good shape can prevent minor issues from turning major.
Dental injuries in dogs, while alarming, are manageable with prompt care. If your dog breaks a tooth, don’t wait to consult a vet. Taking action early can spare your dog discomfort and prevent complications down the line.
Have you had a similar experience with your dog? Share your story in the comments—we’d love to hear about it!