13 Jun What to Do if Your Dog Breaks a Tooth at a Milwaukee Dog Park
A visit to one of Milwaukee’s beautiful dog parks should be all tail wags and sunshine, but sometimes, unexpected accidents happen. One common injury we see at Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin in Milwaukee is a dog tooth fracture, especially after playtime at the park.
Whether your dog is chasing a ball, catching a stick, or wrestling with a friend, dental injuries can occur quickly and be more serious than they appear at first glance.
How a Tooth Fracture Can Happen at a Milwaukee Dog Park
There are many ways a tooth can become fractured during play:
- Biting down on a rock, stick, or ice chunk
- Playing tug-of-war with another dog or with a heavy rope toy
- Running full speed and colliding with another dog or object
- Chewing on hard treats or bones someone may have left in the park
What You Might Notice Right Away When Your Dog Gets a Tooth Fracture
If your dog breaks a tooth, the signs may be obvious or subtle. Look for:
- Immediate pain (yelping, pawing at the mouth, avoiding eating)
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Swelling around the face or muzzle
- A chipped tooth tip or a large portion of the tooth missing (called a slab fracture)
- Reluctance to chew or pick up toys
Even if your dog seems to “shake it off,” dental fractures often expose the inner tooth structures and can lead to infection and significant discomfort if not treated promptly.
What to Do Next
Suppose you notice or suspect your dog has fractured a tooth at the dog park. In that case, we recommend seeking immediate care through your primary veterinarian or contacting Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin directly.
Why? Because a fractured tooth is not only painful, it also exposes the tooth to bacteria and infection, which can affect your dog’s overall health if left untreated.
Advanced Care Options at VDS of WI
At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin, we offer a full range of advanced treatment options for fractured teeth. Depending on the severity and location of the fracture, your dog may be a candidate for:
- Root canal therapy
- Vital pulp therapy
- Surgical or standard extractions
- Advanced imaging (Conebeam CT scans and dental X-rays) to evaluate damage
If the tooth is healthy enough and functionally important, our goal is often to save the tooth through endodontic treatment rather than extract it, especially in younger or active pets.
Your Dog’s Comfort Comes First
Our team, led by a board-certified veterinary dentist, is highly trained in both diagnosing and treating dental trauma. We’ll work with you to decide on the best treatment plan for your dog—one that prioritizes their comfort, function, and long-term health.
If You Need Us
Accidents happen, but your pet’s smile is in good hands. If your dog has a dental injury or you’re not sure what to do next, give us a call. We’re here to help.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (06/13/2025) Photo by Judy Beth Morris on Unsplash