Caring For Your Dog After Tooth Extraction
When performed by a well-trained, board-certified veterinary dentist, the tooth extraction process is relatively routine. There is a chance for difficulty, as each dog is different, and every dog’s mouth is different. However, the prognosis for most dogs undergoing a tooth extraction procedure is very good. Your dog will most likely be able to go home on the same day as the procedure. Prior to having oral surgery done on your pet, you should ask who is going to do the surgery. Believe it or not, some veterinary hospitals allow their nursing staff to do oral surgery. Owners are unknowingly charged doctor surgery fees, but lay staff with no formal training is doing the surgery. In quality facilities, doctors perform all the oral surgery.
Home care is extremely important after canine tooth extraction. While your dog may be back to acting and eating like their normal selves anywhere from 48-72 hours after the procedure, you should be aware that they have not yet fully healed. You should maintain a close watch on your pup for a few weeks until the sutures have dissolved.
Your veterinarian will probably advise you to limit your dog’s activity levels and to feed them softer foods. You can soften dry kibble with water or broth for two weeks following the procedure. You should avoid brushing your dog’s teeth for a few weeks, but Chlorhexidine rinses can be used for homecare until brushing can be resumed.
Finally, be sure to give your dog any prescribed pain medications or antibiotics as instructed by your vet to keep your dog comfortable and help them fight off any potential infections.
Reasons Why Dogs Need Tooth Extractions
The number one reason why dogs need tooth extractions is periodontal disease. This condition is caused by a buildup of plaque and calculus (tartar) on the teeth and under the gumline, leading to destruction of the supporting tissues of the teeth, including bone, the periodontal ligament and attached gum tissues. When bacterial infections worsen, they may also extend into deeper tissues, causing painful abscesses.
The longer a diseased tooth remains in the mouth, the worse the infection can get. If the dental problem can’t be treated, extraction will improve your dog’s dental and overall health. After diseased teeth are removed, your dog will be relieved of the infection and any pain from the infection.
Aside from periodontal disease, there are several other reasons why your dog may need a tooth extraction in their lifetime. Your dog might need to get a tooth pulled if:
Five Common Questions about Dog Tooth Extractions
It’s normal for your dog to have pain at the extraction site for four or five days following the procedure. We will usually prescribe a post-surgery topical or oral pain reliever that will mitigate most of your dog’s discomfort. However, if your dog seems to be in a lot of pain, or starts to do other out-of-the-ordinary things like refusing to eat or drink, you should contact us immediately.
Surgery Aftercare: Canine Dental
If your beloved canine is experiencing advanced tooth decay or disease then the only treatment option may be the removal of the tooth. Here, our Doraville vets discuss what to expect after a dog tooth extractions and why they might be necessary for the oral health of your pet.