Tooth Abcess in Dogs

A dog tooth abscess is an infection that occurs when bacteria enters the root of the tooth. This condition is painful for the dog and can result in the dog eventually losing the tooth. Learning more about abscesses in the teeth of dogs can help you take quick and decisive action if your dog is suffering from this issue.

  1. Causes

    • In most cases, an abscess in a dog's tooth is caused by trauma to the tooth or the dog's mouth. A dog may develop an abscess after receiving a blow, after a fight or from chewing hard objects. When the tooth breaks, bacteria can work its way into the jaw through the break in the skin or through the exposure of the root.

    Symptoms

    • There are several signs that your dog might have a tooth abscess. A swollen nose might be a sign of infection, and a lack of interest in food can also be seen as a sign that your dog is in discomfort. Bad breath are bloody teeth are also common signs. A dog who has a tooth abscess might have a swollen eye due to the inflamed tissues in its face.

    Identification

    • A veterinarian will be able to identify a tooth abscess in a dog through searching for swelling and looking for pus, which can be the sign of white blood cells. A veterinarian will also perform an X-ray to find out for sure which tooth is affected.

    Treatment

    • There are two methods that are typically used to treat dog tooth abscess. The tooth may be extracted, along with all of the surrounding tissue. In this process, the tooth is cut in half and then pulled out from the root. If the infection is not excised entirely, it may return again. The abscessed tooth may also be treated using a root canal. The dead tissue will be removed and the tooth itself will be sealed and polished. After a root canal, the dog will need a full course of antibiotics, but the tooth will be saved.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The best way to make sure that a tooth abscess on a dog does not progress is to make sure that any infections are dealt with properly. Regular veterinary visits that include an oral exam can help identify problems before they become severe, as can veterinary dental care and a regimen of home dental care.