Q: My dog has a broken tooth, and the veterinarian has recommended treatment. My dog is still eating. Can I leave the tooth? Will it fall out on its own?
A: Your pet’s dental issues, especially a broken tooth, should be addressed. Broken teeth are a persistent source of pain that can lead to chronic behavior changes.
Leave dental disease untreated can lead to many problems. Gum infections can enter the bloodstream, which travels to vital organs such as the heart and kidneys, leading to serious conditions. Chronic inflammation and pain can also worsen existing health concerns. It is important to treat oral health as part of a holistic approach to wellness.
The longer a diseased tooth remains in the mouth, the more likely it is to affect other teeth, cause infection of the bone, or cause other problems. Waiting for a tooth to fall out on its own is not recommended. Your veterinarian may recommend extraction, root canals, or crown restorations, or you may be referred to a board-certified veterinary dentist.
The dog in the photo has a slab fracture, a common injury from chewing on hard objects. This can lead to an open pulp chamber (the sensitive inner portion) of the tooth and pulpitis, increasing the risk of infection. You might see a purple discoloration, indicating the pulp chamber is exposed and the tooth is dying. Animals may still eat, but avoid having their head touched due to pain. Your dog may avoid some training, such as muzzle conditioning, or progress may not be made. They may chew on one side of their mouth, not want to chew on their favorite toys and treats, or drop food while eating. Animals will eat through pain because it is a survival mechanism in the wild, where an animal showing weakness may become prey. Do not assume your pet is not painful even though they are still eating.
Behavior changes are often noticed after a pet has had their diseased teeth addressed. The cat in the photo had a painful condition called stomatitis and needed all their teeth removed. Prior to the dental, they avoided contact and picked at their food. Following the procedure, the cat ate well and started playing for the first time since adoption. This is another example of how oral issues can affect behavioral health.
