In some situations when your dog's tooth is broken or decayed beyond repair, an extraction will be necessary to stop the infection and allow your dog's mouth to heal. Here, our Harrisburg vets explain what you can expect if your dog is getting a tooth removed.
Dog Dental Extractions
A dog tooth extraction occurs when a veterinarian surgically removes a tooth. During the extraction procedure, general anesthesia will be administered to your dog. This ensures their comfort, prevents them from struggling, and enables our veterinary staff to perform the extraction safely.
The Necessity of Removing Dog Teeth
In the majority of cases, a dog's teeth will need to be extracted due to tooth decay or advanced gum disease caused by poor oral hygiene. When a tooth is irreparably damaged, it must be extracted to prevent infection and pain caused by the decayed tooth.
After your dog has its diseased tooth or teeth removed, you should speak to your veterinarian about the proper home care for your dog to prevent its 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 to Expect After Tooth Extraction in Dogs
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.
During your dog's dental 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.
Due to the relatively rapid recovery from this procedure, you should be able to bring your pet home on the same day. If the majority of your pet's diet consists of hard kibble, you can soften it in warm water for a few days prior to serving. You should also refrain from playing tug-of-war with your dog until their mouth has fully healed, which usually takes two 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 are, or if you find any other complications after your dog's tooth extraction, 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.