Tooth fractures are a form of tooth trauma that occurs more frequently than not. Fractured teeth occur more often in dogs that love to chew…. enthusiastic chewers! Broken or fractured teeth can be a significant source of oral discomfort and can lead to a need for advanced dental care and treatment. So, let’s take a closer look at dog tooth fracture prevention.
Tooth Trauma 101…… What Causes Tooth Fractures?
- Chewing on hard objects. Did you know that humans have 5-10x more enamel than dogs do? Dogs are carnivores…hunters. The cusps of their teeth are more pointed compared to ours. Dog teeth function to grip and cut food before it is swallowed, and prolonged chewing is not needed for digestive function. The need for more tooth enamel is seen in species with dietary requirements for plant matter. Plant matter requires more grinding and subsequently a need for more enamel. Hard chew objects, including bones, rawhides, antlers, and rocks, cause tooth trauma. Rigid plastic items like Nyla bones frequently cause tooth injuries.
- Maxillofacial trauma from vehicular accidents, rough play, or altercations with other animals is a common cause of fractured teeth.
- Chronic wear from chewing on kennels, metal bars, or fences. Chronic chewing causes wear or abrasion on teeth. The pattern of abrasion can make a tooth or teeth more susceptible to fracture.
Dog Tooth Fracture Prevention…. Tips
- Choose tooth-safe chew toys: opt for toys that have some “give” when pressed. A good rule of thumb—if you cannot indent it with your fingernail, it’s too hard.
- Avoid risky items: Skip bones, antlers, hooves, and any hard object. If you believe it would break your teeth, then the object can most definitely break your dog’s teeth. Hard chew toys are notorious for causing tooth fractures. If there is any doubt, throw it out!
- Monitor chewing habits: Watch for signs of aggressive chewing or preference for one side of the mouth.
- Provide additional enrichment to chewing: Having additional ‘hobbies’ and not just relying on chewing for enrichment will minimize chronic stress and wear on the teeth. Sniff mats, long walks/jogs, food puzzles, agility training, etc. can provide multiple outlets for physical and mental energy.
- Schedule regular dental checkups: Early detection of wear or fractures can prevent bigger problems
Signs of a Fractured Tooth
- Chewing on one side. This often leads to calculus asymmetry. Teeth that are not used will accumulate plaque and tartar more readily.
- Oral Pain
- Dropping food while eating
- Decreased appetite.
- Decreased desire for oral play, including fetching.
- Pawing at the mouth
- Sensitivity when petting…head shy
- Drooling or blood-tinged saliva
- Facial swelling or behavior changes. This is usually indicative of a tooth root abscess and is considered a dental emergency.
When to See a Vet
If you notice any of the signs above—or visible damage to a tooth—consult your veterinarian immediately. Have your primary care veterinarian evaluate your dog’s oral cavity and teeth during each wellness appointment. Dental cleanings, also referred to as a COHAT (Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment), are recommended annually.
Treatment for Fractured Teeth
Specific treatment depends on the extent of the tooth fracture.
- Odontoplasty bonded sealant. Teeth that have minor fractures without direct pulp exposure can be treated with odontoplasty/bonded sealant therapy. In this procedure, the fracture site is made smooth, followed by application of dental resin material to protect the underlying tooth structure. Dental imaging should be completed before this is elected to ensure that the tooth is not infected.
- Root canal therapy –Fractured teeth with pulp exposure are considered non-vital or dead. There are two options for teeth with pulp exposure…root canal therapy or extraction therapy.
- In root canal therapy, the pulp cavity is disinfected, followed by placement of a filling and restoration. The benefit of root canal therapy is that it allows the existing tooth structure to remain. Root canal therapy in dogs is similar to root canal therapy in humans!
- Extraction therapy—Fractured teeth with pulp exposure that have a prognosis with root canal therapy should be extracted. In some cases, extraction therapy is the preferred choice. In extraction therapy, the affected tooth is surgically removed, followed by closure of the extraction site with an absorbable suture that does not need to be removed.
Fractured Tooth Repair in Bozeman, Montana
Tooth fractures happen, and we recommend to address them promptly to prevent serious complications. If you have any questions about your canine companion’s oral health, contact us today to schedule a consultation appointment. Oral health is our passion, and we would love to answer any questions regarding your pet’s needs.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (10/03/2025) Photo by Anthony Aird on Unsplash