What should I do if my dog loses a tooth? Here’s What to Do Next

Causes of Tooth Dislocation or Sudden Loss in Dogs

Sudden loss or displacement of a tooth is almost always due to trauma to the mouth area. This can be due to falls, blows to the face, disputes with other dogs, car accidents, or biting down on inappropriately hard material, such as bone, stone or metal. Infections of the teeth and gums can weaken the teeth and increase the chance that they will become displaced or broken.

Treatment of Tooth Dislocation or Sudden Loss in Dogs

Avulsion, luxation, and concussion are all urgent matters and you should contact your veterinarian as soon as you are aware of the problem. Your veterinarian will either have you come in or will make a referral to a veterinary dentist.

If the tooth is concussed or luxated, keep your dog calm and quiet while you contact your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may have you realign the tooth in the socket if it is possible and safe to do so. This will protect the root from drying out and help to prevent further damage to the socket.

If the tooth is completely removed from the socket, pick the tooth up without touching the root. If there is dirt or debris present you may rinse the tooth in lukewarm water for just a few seconds, any longer than a few seconds could cause additional damage to the tooth. Do not attempt to dry the tooth off or to wrap it in paper or cloth. When it is possible, reinsertion of the tooth into the socket will best protect the roots from drying out, otherwise putting the tooth in a small amount of milk or saliva will keep the roots viable for a short time.

It is often the case that the tooth may be reinserted, but time is of the essence. Successful replantation of avulsed or luxated teeth usually has the best prognosis the more quickly it is addressed. Oral surgery under anesthesia is generally required to replace or reposition the tooth. Various wires or splints may be used to hold teeth in place while healing. If the tooth cannot safely be reinserted or repositioned, your veterinarinan will make sure to remove any damaged tooth fragments that may be in the socket and suture it closed if warranted.

Most owners, however, wont pursue tooth replacement as it is a costly and specialised procedure.

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What are Tooth Dislocation or Sudden Loss?

Dislocation , luxation or sudden loss of teeth in canines is usually caused by trauma to the mouth area. Partial dislocation of the tooth is called luxation and full dislocation out of the socket is referred to as avulsion. Luxation can present vertically (up or down within the socket) or laterally (movement is from side to side). Luxation and avulsion are both urgent conditions that need veterinary intervention without delay.

Trauma to the mouth is the most common cause of dislocation of the teeth. Luxation and avulsion are both urgent conditions. Any damage or irregularity of the teeth should be investigated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. Youtube Play

Tooth Dislocation or Sudden Loss Average Cost

From 367 quotes ranging from $200 – $2,500

Dog Loose Tooth! What to do and what to expect.