10 Sep Dog Tooth Fracture Repair: Is It an Emergency?
Dogs are adventurous, playful, and sometimes a little reckless, which can lead to broken or fractured teeth. When it comes to a tooth fracture, how do you know if it’s an emergency? At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin (VDSWI), we want to help dog owners recognize when urgent dental care is needed and understand the options for repair.
Why Dog Teeth Break
A tooth can fracture for several reasons, including:
- Chewing on hard objects (bones, rocks, antlers, or toys)
- Trauma from falls, accidents, or rough play
- Pre-existing dental disease that weakens the tooth
Fractures can involve just the enamel or extend deeper into the tooth pulp, which houses nerves and blood vessels. The deeper the fracture, the more painful it can be and the higher the risk of infection.
Signs Your Dog May Need Tooth Fracture Emergency Care
Some fractures may not be immediately obvious. However, watch for these signs:
- Sudden reluctance to eat or chew
- Drooling or blood around the mouth
- Swelling of the face or jaw
- Pawing at the mouth
- Bad breath (halitosis)
If your dog shows any of these signs, it’s important to schedule a veterinary dental exam as soon as possible.
When is a Dog Tooth Fracture an Emergency?
Not all fractured teeth require emergency care, but teeth with pulp exposure or infection are urgent. These fractures can lead to:
- Severe pain
- Abscess formation
- Spread of infection to surrounding teeth or bone
At VDSWI, our board-certified veterinary dentist can assess the severity of the fracture using dental radiographs and determine the best treatment plan.
Options for Tooth Fracture Repair
The type of repair depends on the fracture:
- Minor chips may only require smoothing or monitoring
- Fractures involving the pulp often need root canal therapy or extraction
- Complex fractures may require advanced restorative procedures to save the tooth
Our specialists focus on pain-free, long-lasting solutions to restore your dog’s oral health and quality of life.
Don’t Wait—Protect Your Dog’s Smile
A fractured tooth is more than just a cosmetic issue—it’s a potential source of pain and infection. If you notice any signs of dental trauma, call VDSWI immediately. Early evaluation and treatment can prevent complications and keep your dog healthy and happy.
Schedule an appointment today at 262-622-2537 or request a consultation online. Your dog’s smile and their comfort are worth it.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (09/10/2025) Photo by Anthony Aird on Unsplash