What to Do If Your Dog Broke a Tooth

Whether it happened while chewing on a hard toy, playing too roughly, or due to an accident, a broken tooth is painful and can lead to complications. Dogs rely on their teeth not just for eating but also for exploring their environment. A damaged tooth can affect their comfort, health, and overall well-being. Knowing how to respond to a broken tooth can make all the difference in protecting your pet’s health. If your dog has suffered a broken tooth, contact Bottletree Animal Hospital at (662) 234-4336 to have their dental health evaluated.

 

 

Signs That Your Dog Broke a Tooth

A broken tooth may not always be obvious at first glance, but there are several symptoms to watch for. Since dogs often hide pain, pet owners need to recognize subtle indicators of dental discomfort. If your dog has broken a tooth, you may notice one or more of the following signs:

• Reluctance to eat, especially hard food or treats
• Drooling more than usual
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Bleeding from the mouth
• Swelling around the jaw or face
• Behavioral changes, such as increased aggression or withdrawal
• Bad breath, which can indicate infection

If you suspect your dog broke a tooth, avoid trying to examine it yourself, as this could cause them more pain. Instead, reach out to your veterinarian to assess the severity of the injury.

Common Causes of a Broken Tooth in Dogs

Dogs are active and curious, which can sometimes lead to dental injuries. A dog can break a tooth in several ways, including:

• Chewing on hard objects – Bones, antlers, ice, and hard plastic toys can cause tooth fractures.
• Trauma from accidents – A fall, rough play, or getting hit by an object can damage teeth.
• Biting on metal or hard surfaces – Some dogs may try to bite down on fences, cages, or even rocks.
• Advanced dental disease – Weak teeth due to decay or gum disease can break more easily.
• Tugging on toys too forcefully – Engaging in aggressive tug-of-war can put stress on teeth and cause fractures.

Types of Tooth Fractures in Dogs

Not all broken teeth are the same, and the severity of the fracture will determine the best course of action. There are a few different types of tooth fractures:

Enamel Fracture

This is a minor break that affects only the enamel, the outer layer of the tooth. While it may not be painful, it can still weaken the tooth over time.

Uncomplicated Crown Fracture

This type of break involves the enamel and dentin but does not expose the tooth’s pulp (nerve and blood supply). It may cause sensitivity, but infection risk is lower than more severe fractures.

Complicated Crown Fracture

A complicated fracture extends into the pulp, causing significant pain and increasing the likelihood of infection. Immediate veterinary care is needed to prevent serious complications.

Root Fracture

This occurs beneath the gumline and is often not visible without X-rays. Root fractures can be particularly painful and may lead to tooth loss if not treated promptly.

Why Immediate Veterinary Care Is Necessary

If your dog broke a tooth, prompt veterinary care is crucial. Unlike humans, dogs cannot communicate their pain, and untreated dental fractures can lead to serious issues, including:

• Infections – A broken tooth can become infected, leading to abscesses and systemic health problems.
• Persistent pain – Exposed nerves cause discomfort, affecting your dog’s appetite and behavior.
• Tooth loss – Without treatment, the damaged tooth may deteriorate and fall out.
• Damage to surrounding teeth – A weakened or fractured tooth can put additional stress on adjacent teeth.

Your veterinarian will assess the severity of the fracture and recommend the best treatment plan to restore your dog’s oral health.

Potential Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth

The treatment for a broken tooth will depend on the type and severity of the fracture. Veterinary dental care may involve:

Tooth Extraction

If the damage is severe, extraction may be necessary to prevent further pain and infection. Dogs can adapt well after losing a tooth, especially if it is in the back of the mouth.

Root Canal Therapy

For a fractured tooth with pulp exposure, a root canal can remove infected tissue while preserving the tooth structure. This option is often recommended for larger teeth, such as canines or molars.

Crown Placement

For dogs with significant fractures but otherwise healthy teeth, a veterinary dentist may place a protective crown to restore function and prevent further damage.

Antibiotics and Pain Management

If there is an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear it up. Pain medication can also help manage discomfort during the healing process.

What You Can Do to Prevent Broken Teeth in Dogs

While accidents can happen, there are ways to reduce the risk of your dog breaking a tooth:

• Provide soft or rubber chew toys instead of hard bones or antlers.
• Supervise your dog when playing with chew toys to ensure they don’t overexert their bite.
• Avoid giving your dog ice cubes or hard treats that can lead to fractures.
• Schedule regular dental checkups to monitor your dog’s oral health.
• Be mindful of rough play and prevent activities that could lead to facial injuries.

If your dog broke a tooth, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen—seek veterinary care as soon as possible. A broken tooth can be painful and may lead to serious complications if left untreated. At Bottletree Animal Hospital, our team is here to assess your dog’s dental health and recommend the best treatment options to restore their comfort. Call (662) 234-4336 today or schedule an appointment to get your dog the care they need.