When you bring your dog in for dental care, your veterinarian dentist will do everything they can to repair and save your dog's teeth. Unfortunately, they may be times when the tooth is beyond repair and removal will be recommended. Here, our Argyle vets talk about dog tooth extraction and what you can expect from this dental surgery.
Dog Tooth Extractions
When your dog has a tooth extraction this means that the affected tooth has been surgically removed by their veterinarian. During the extraction process, your dog will be put under general anesthesia. This keeps them comfortable, prevents them from struggling, allowing your vet to remove the tooth while keeping both themselves and your dog safe.
Why Are Dog Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Poor oral hygiene is the leading cause behind the need for dog tooth extraction surgeries. When a tooth is damaged beyond repair, it is essential to remove it 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 While Your Dog Recovers From Tooth Extraction Surgery
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.
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.