In some instances, when a dog's tooth is broken or damaged beyond repair, an extraction will be required to stop infection from growing or spreading and to allow your dog's mouth to recover. Here, our Oceanside vets explain what you can expect if your dog is getting a tooth removed.
Dog Dental Extractions
When a tooth is surgically removed by a veterinarian, it is called a dog tooth extraction. During the extraction process, your dog will be placed under general anesthesia. This will help to keep them comfortable, prevents them from struggling and will allow our veterinary team to safely complete the procedure.
The Necessity of Removing Dog Teeth
In most instances, a song will have their tooth removed because f decay or advanced gum disease that is caused by poor oral hygiene. When a tooth is damaged beyond repair, it's important to remove it in order to prevent infection and the pain caused by a decayed tooth.
After your dog has their diseased tooth or teeth removed, 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 to Expect After Tooth Extraction in Dogs
Your dog's teeth are held in their mouth by the roots. In dogs, their teeth may be held by as many as 3 roots when compared to human teeth, which have as many as two. To fully extract a tooth, all of its roots must be removed.
During your dog's extraction surgery, they will be placed under the effects of anesthesia. When they wake up, your dog may be lethargic or groggy for the remainder of the day. This is a completely normal reaction to being placed under anesthesia.
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.