In some situations when your dog's tooth is broken or decayed beyond repair, an extraction will be necessary to stop the infection and allow your dog's mouth to heal. Here, our San Gabriel vets explain what you can expect if your dog is getting a tooth removed.
Dog Tooth Extractions
A dog tooth extraction is when a veterinarian surgically removes a tooth. Your dog will be put under general anesthesia during the extraction procedure. This keeps them comfortable, prevents them from struggling, and allows our veterinary team to perform the extraction safely.
The Necessity of Removing Dog Teeth
In most cases, a dog's tooth must be extracted due to decay or advanced gum disease caused by poor oral hygiene. When a tooth is irreparably damaged, it must be extracted 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 After Tooth Extraction in Dogs
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.
Your dog will be sedated during the dental surgery. They may wake up groggy or lethargic for the rest of the day. This is entirely natural.
Because the recovery time from this procedure is relatively short, you should be able to take your pet home the same day. If your pet primarily consumes hard kibble, soak it in warm water for a few days before serving. You should also refrain from playing tug of war with your dog until its mouth has healed completely, which usually takes about 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 are, or if you notice any other complications after your dog's tooth extraction like continuing to be lethargic, 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.