If your dog is experiencing pain in their mouth, tooth extractions may be required to provide relief and promote healing. Our vets in Baton Rouge have shared some valuable insights on tooth extractions in dogs to help pet owners understand the process and what to anticipate.
Dog Tooth Extractions
Occasionally, dogs may require dental surgery to extract one or multiple teeth, which a qualified veterinarian performs. The extraction procedure may involve removing the entire tooth, including the roots, or solely the visible part of the tooth above the gum line, known as the dental crown.
Why a Tooth Extraction is Necessary
When a dog's tooth is severely damaged, it's crucial to have it extracted to prevent infection and alleviate any pain caused by the dead tooth. This procedure helps ensure the dog's overall oral health and helps them live a pain-free life.
Following Your Dog's Tooth Extraction
Did you know that several roots anchor each of your dog's teeth? For proper extraction, all the roots must be removed. During dental surgery, your furry friend will receive anesthesia to ensure their comfort. Our skilled veterinarians follow strict surgical protocols to guarantee a safe procedure. A vet may take an X-ray or CT scan to assess your dog's tooth root health. For larger teeth with multiple roots, a high-speed dental drill is used to split the tooth into fragments, each with only one root. Smaller teeth with a single root can be extracted whole without further steps.
Potential Dog Tooth Extraction Complications
It is uncommon for veterinary tooth extractions to result in complications. However, if complications do arise, they generally fall into a few categories. These include incomplete healing of dental cavities, remnants of extracted teeth, and potential damage to the jaw bone. These are all areas where complications may occur during a dog tooth extraction.
Your Dog's Recovery From a Tooth Extraction
After a tooth extraction, your pet should be able to go home on the same day of the procedure, and the recovery process should be speedy. Although there may be slight traces of blood in their saliva, significant bleeding should not occur. It is crucial to contact your vet immediately if you notice any excessive bleeding.
Our Baton Rouge veterinarians suggest not feeding your dog solid foods for a while until the area has fully healed. If your dog consumes hard kibble, you can soften it in water before feeding it to them. Additionally, we recommend refraining from playing tug-of-war until your dog has fully recovered to avoid any potential harm.
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.