A broken tooth might not seem like a big deal at first, but it can be painful, dangerous, and lead to serious dental issues. We will walk you through how to recognize a broken tooth, why it matters, and what to do next to keep your pup happy and healthy.
How Do Dogs Break Teeth?
Dogs love to chew, but not everything they bite is tooth-friendly. Broken teeth often happen when dogs chew on:
- Hard bones or antlers
- Rocks or sticks
- Ice cubes
- Hard nylon toys or chews
Even accidents like running into furniture or a rough game of tug can cause fractures. The most commonly affected tooth? The upper fourth premolar—also known as the carnassial tooth—used for grinding and tearing.
Signs Your Dog Has a Broken Tooth
Not all broken teeth are easy to see. Some dogs won’t show signs at all. But keep an eye out for:
- Pawing at the mouth
- Sudden food refusal or chewing on one side
- Bad breath
- Swelling around the face or jaw
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Visible tooth crack or discoloration
If you notice any of these, it’s time to call your vet.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
A broken tooth is more than cosmetic. If the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) is exposed, bacteria can enter and cause a painful abscess or infection. Over time, that infection can spread to the jawbone or even internal organs.
Even if your dog seems fine, they may be masking pain. Dogs are instinctively good at hiding discomfort, especially with dental problems.
What Your Vet Will Do
At Bright Vet, we start with a full oral exam. Dental X-rays help us determine the extent of the fracture and whether the pulp is involved.
Depending on the damage, treatment may include:
- Tooth extraction for severely damaged teeth
- Root canal to preserve function if the tooth can be saved
- Smoothing or sealing minor chips to prevent infection
We’ll also discuss safe recovery steps and help you prevent future issues.
Preventing Future Tooth Breaks
Here are a few tips to protect your dog’s pearly whites:
- Stick with vet-approved chew toys (avoid antlers and bones)
- Avoid letting your dog chew on hard items like rocks or ice
- Brush their teeth regularly using dog-safe toothpaste
- Visit your vet for routine dental exams and cleanings
Prevention is key—and often a lot less expensive than emergency dental work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dog live with a broken tooth?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. An untreated broken tooth can lead to chronic pain and infection.
Is a chipped tooth an emergency?
If it’s minor and your dog is eating normally, it may not be urgent—but still needs to be checked soon.
How much does dog dental treatment cost?
It varies depending on the treatment, but catching issues early can save money long-term.
Will a broken dog tooth fall out naturally?
Not usually. It may remain painful or become infected if left untreated.
What toys are safest for my dog’s teeth?
Look for soft rubber or dental-specific toys approved by your vet. Avoid bones, hooves, and hard nylon toys.