Here's today's question from the wide world of internet:
I am no dental expert and I have not seen your dog. Having said that...
If the canine tooth (fang) has exposed pulp, then you really have three alternatives:
1. Do nothing, let the tooth abscess. The dog could be in pain for years. Bad idea. Imagine your tooth is broken and the nerve is exposed. Now imagine that you can't do anything about it... for weeks (or longer). Now imagine that it doesn't hurt. Good luck with that, huh?
3. Root canal therapy. Saves the tooth (probably) and eliminates the dog's pain. Costs a lot, as it requires specialized equipment and specialized knowledge. Believe me, as someone whose family dentist performed a root canal that should have been done by an endodontic specialist the FIRST time, you don't want a "bargain" root canal.
In the immortal words of Charley Allnutt in "The African Queen", "You pays your money and you takes your choice."
Good luck.
People have such a fear of extractions...I am not sure why as many of them aren't very proactive about their own dental care!
I just had an almost full mouth extraction with one of my senior cats, done in 2 separate procedures about 6 weeks apart, so we lessened the risk of fracturing the jaw as all 4 K-9's had to come out.
This kitty now weighs more than he ever has, by 12 oz, and he is so much happier and comfortable.
Posted by: Teri and the cats of Furrydance | July 26, 2010 at 07:20 PM
Spot broke his canines over the years because he loves to put his Almost Indestructible Ball in his mouth and carry it a few feet/across the yard and then pry it out of his mouth. The first time our vet saw his teeth, he asked if Spot had been chewing rocks. The broken teeth don't seem to be causing him any pain, our vet checks them when we visit. I'd probably have a tooth pulled if it was causing any problems.
Posted by: Janet | August 01, 2010 at 07:11 AM
We should take care of our pets dental care as we do our own, unfortunately many don't understand this concept.
Posted by: Animals Away | August 03, 2010 at 04:26 AM
It would be a very good idea to take your dog to the vet. Better to have an expert take that tooth out and treat it afterwards.
Posted by: dental consulting | July 22, 2012 at 07:30 PM
As they age, most cats will experience dental problems, ranging from broken teeth and inflamed gums to periodontal disease and cavities. An examination by your veterinarian is the only sure-fire way to know if your cat has dental issues. There are, however, things that cat owners can do to help care for their cat's teeth.
Posted by: Cat food | July 26, 2012 at 12:56 AM