Importance of Pet Dental Health

Maintaining good dental health is crucial for your pet’s overall well-being. Just like in humans, pets can develop plaque buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease, which, if left untreated, may lead to severe complications such as pain, tooth loss, infections, and even systemic illness affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Regular veterinary dental care, including professional cleanings, at-home maintenance, and early intervention, helps prevent the need for extractions or advanced dental surgery. However, in some cases, surgical intervention becomes necessary to restore comfort and function.

Recognizing Signs That Indicate Dental Surgery Might Be Needed

Because pets cannot verbalize pain, it is essential for owners to look for subtle signs of discomfort that could indicate dental disease or abnormalities.

Signs Your Pet May Need Dental Surgery:

  • Bad breath (persistent halitosis often signals gum disease).
  • Difficulty eating, dropping food, or chewing on one side.
  • Pawing at the mouth or excessive drooling.
  • Bleeding, inflamed, or receding gums.
  • Loose, broken, or missing teeth.
  • Swelling around the mouth or jaw.
  • Nasal discharge or sneezing (which may indicate an oral-nasal fistula).

If your pet shows any of these symptoms, schedule a dental evaluation at Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital for early diagnosis and treatment.

Dental Conditions That Require Surgery

1. Advanced Periodontal Disease

If periodontal disease progresses beyond gingivitis, it can cause gum recession, bone loss, and abscess formation, requiring tooth extractions to prevent infection from spreading to vital organs.

2. Tooth Fractures

Broken teeth expose the sensitive pulp and nerves, leading to pain and infection. Some fractures can be treated with root canals, while others require extractions. Learn more about treating fractured teeth at Today’s Veterinary Practice.

3. Oral Tumors and Cysts

Benign and malignant tumors may develop in the gums, tongue, or jawbone. Some tumors are aggressive and require partial jaw removal, while others may be treated with less invasive excision and follow-up therapy. Cysts in the jawbone may weaken the bone structure and necessitate surgical removal.

4. Developmental Abnormalities (Congenital and Acquired Malformations)

Some pets are born with jaw and tooth abnormalities that require surgical correction for proper eating, drinking, and breathing.

Common Dental Abnormalities That Require Surgery:

  • Cleft palate – A birth defect where an opening remains in the roof of the mouth, requiring surgical closure to prevent infections and difficulty eating.
  • Oral-nasal fistulas – Holes between the mouth and nasal cavity, often caused by severe periodontal disease or trauma, leading to chronic nasal infections.
  • Underbite (mandibular prognathism) or overbite (maxillary prognathism) – Severe cases may cause tooth misalignment and trauma to the gums, necessitating extractions or corrective procedures.
  • Narrow or wide base canines – Misaligned canines may puncture the palate, leading to chronic pain and infections. Corrective extractions or orthodontic procedures may be required.

5. Jaw Fractures Due to Trauma or Disease

Jaw fractures may result from falls, fights, car accidents, or severe dental disease that weakens the bone. Some fractures heal with stabilization and rest, while others need surgical intervention, including wiring or bone grafts.

Common Dental Surgery Procedures for Pets

1. Tooth Extractions

When a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or causing pain, extraction may be the best solution to prevent further complications. Extractions are commonly performed for:

  • Severe periodontal disease
  • Broken or fractured teeth with nerve exposure
  • Impacted teeth that never erupted properly
  • Persistent baby teeth that interfere with adult teeth growth

2. Oral Surgery for Tumors, Cysts, and Fistulas

  • Tumor removal – Includes excision of benign or cancerous growths.
  • Oral-nasal fistula repair – Surgically closing openings that connect the mouth to the nasal cavity.
  • Bone cyst removal – Prevents jaw fractures and supports proper healing.

3. Corrective Jaw Surgery

For pets with severe overbites, underbites, or misaligned teeth, corrective surgery may help them eat and breathe more comfortably.

4. Root Canals and Advanced Endodontics

In some cases, a root canal can save a damaged tooth, eliminating pain while preserving function. This is often considered for working or show dogs where tooth removal may be undesirable.

Learn more about the importance of dental radiography in diagnosing hidden oral conditions at Vetstreet.

The Dental Surgery Process for Pets

1. Pre-Surgical Preparations

Before dental surgery, a comprehensive oral exam and imaging (X-rays or CT scans) are conducted to assess the condition of the teeth and surrounding structures.

  • Pre-anesthetic blood tests ensure your pet is healthy enough for sedation.
  • Pain management plans are discussed to ensure a smooth recovery.

2. What Happens During Surgery?

  • General anesthesia is administered for pain-free treatment.
  • Teeth are extracted, repaired, or corrected based on your pet’s needs.
  • Sutures may be placed for soft tissue repairs.

3. Post-Surgical Care and Recovery

After surgery, proper post-operative care is crucial for healing. This includes:

  • Pain management with veterinary-prescribed medication.
  • A soft diet to prevent discomfort while eating.
  • Monitoring for swelling, bleeding, or signs of infection.
  • Follow-up appointments to track healing progress.

For any post-operative concerns, reach out to Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital.

A close-up of a person lifting the upper lip of a light brown dog to show its teeth and gums, possibly for a dental check. The dog's mouth is slightly open, revealing clean teeth.

Preventing Dental Problems in Pets

The best way to avoid dental surgery is through consistent preventive care.

1. Daily Oral Hygiene

  • Brush your pet’s teeth daily using pet-safe toothpaste.
  • Use dental rinses and wipes for extra plaque control.

2. Regular Professional Cleanings

  • Annual veterinary dental cleanings remove tartar and detect problems early.
  • Dental radiographs (X-rays) help identify hidden issues before they worsen.

3. Appropriate Chew Toys and Diet

  • Avoid hard chews (such as antlers and bones) that can fracture teeth.
  • Use vet-recommended dental chews to help reduce plaque.

For tips on choosing safe dental chews, visit Preventive Vet.

Scheduling a Dental Checkup in Mesa, Arizona

Maintaining your pet’s oral health ensures they live a comfortable, pain-free life. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings prevent serious conditions that may require surgery.

To schedule a dental evaluation, visit our Request an Appointment page.

By prioritizing preventive dental care, you can help your pet avoid painful dental diseases and complex surgeries, ensuring a happier, healthier life.