While your vet will always do everything possible to save your dog's teeth if they are experiencing any dental conditions, there may be times when that is not possible. Here, our Pittsboro vets talk about dog dental extractions, why they may be necessary and what you can expect after the surgery.
Dog Dental Extractions
A dog dental extraction is a surgery in which a veterinary dentist will remove a tooth that is causing concern. During the extraction process, your dog will be put under general anesthesia. This keeps them comfortable, prevents them from struggling, and allows our veterinary team to safely complete the dental extraction.
Why Dog Dental Extractions May Be Necessary
Typically poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of tooth decay which can result in the need for dog dental extractions. When a tooth is damaged beyond repair, it is important to remove it in order to prevent infection and pain caused by the decayed tooth.
After your dog has undergone a dental extraction, you should speak to your veterinarian about the proper home care for your dog to prevent their other teeth from becoming similarly 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 infection.
- Deciduous teeth - Baby teeth that do not fall out on their own may need to be removed.
- Oral tumors - The treatment of tumors may involve the extraction of nearby teeth.
- Orthodontic abnormalities - Just like humans, sometimes dogs have teeth where they don't belong.
What You Can Expect After Dog Dental Extractions
When it comes to our teeth, they are kept securely in place thanks to something called roots. The number of roots that the teeth have depends on the type of animal. In dogs, as many as three roots can be holding an individual tooth. To fully extract a tooth, all roots must be removed.
During your dog's dental extraction surgery they will be under the effects of anesthesia. When they wake up they may be groggy or lethargic for the remainder of the day - this is completely normal.
As the recovery from this procedure is relatively quick, you should be able to bring your pet home on the same day as the procedure. If your pet eats primarily hard kibble, you can soften it in warm water for a few days before serving. 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.