Tooth root infection in dogs

Tooth root infection in dogs

Tooth root inflammation is a major problem in animal dentistry. In most cases, unfortunately, it can only be treated surgically. In today's blog post, we will explain how the disease manifests itself and how you can effectively prevent tooth root inflammation in your dog.

Tooth root infection in dogs: The clinical picture

A tooth root infection is an inflammation in the area of ​​the tooth root. Similar to humans, this manifests itself in severe toothache. The affected areas can vary, however. The pulp, nerves and even the blood vessels and periodontal membrane can be affected. The entire periodontal ligament can also be affected. In most cases, however, the transitions are fluid.

Harmful bacteria are the cause of tooth root inflammation. It often develops from gum inflammation (gingivitis) or trauma (injury). Tooth decay can also lead to tooth root inflammation. However, this is rarely the case in dogs.

No matter what causes a tooth root infection, how quickly it spreads depends directly on how good your dog's immune response is. Younger and older dogs in particular have weak immune systems. Regular dental check-ups and care are essential for the reasons mentioned above. For dental care, we recommend our emmi®-pet ultrasonic toothbrush. It cleans your dog's teeth particularly gently and thoroughly.

Chronic inflammatory stimuli can also lead to granulomas, which are small nodules made of newly formed tissue.

Tooth root inflammation in dogs and its treatment options

The teeth most commonly affected by tooth root inflammation are the canines and the first of the back molars in the upper jaw. The exact and final diagnosis can often only be made by a veterinarian.

However, there are many treatment options. They depend on the extent and severity of the inflammation. The important thing here is that the faster a tooth root infection is recognized and treated, the more effective the treatment can be. If a tooth root infection goes unnoticed and untreated for a long time, the bacteria can spread to other parts of the body.

Depending on the degree of inflammation, the treatment can be very extensive. In most cases, a tooth root infection can only be treated under anesthesia. Under anesthesia, the veterinarian decides whether dental treatment is likely to be successful or whether the tooth must be completely extracted.

If there is a chance of success, the tooth does not need to be extracted. In this case, your vet will remove the root tip and fill the tooth cavity. He will remove the surrounding tissue, rinse the wound and treat it with antibiotics.

After veterinary treatment, it may be necessary to administer an antibiotic and a painkiller with anti-inflammatory properties. In the first few days after treatment, you can support your dog by providing him with soft food and rinsing the wound in the mouth with sterile saline solution after eating.

Tooth root infection in dogs: prognosis and prophylaxis

The prognosis is quite good if a tooth root infection is treated promptly and professionally. As a preventative measure, you should have your dog's teeth checked regularly. You should not limit yourself to visual and tactile checks. You can ideally carry out professional dental care and hygiene with our emmi®-pet ultrasonic toothbrush.