Types of fracture
A superficial enamel chip with no damage to the pulp can often be restored with a filling. A fracture that exposes the pulp chamber needs an assessment of whether the pulp is still viable and an individual plan. A root fracture is assessed by its location, the mobility of the fragments and whether the tooth can be kept.
The outward appearance does not always reflect the depth of the damage — dental X-rays are essential.
- Enamel chip — restoration (filling) where clinically indicated
- Exposed pulp — root canal treatment, vital pulp therapy or extraction, depending on the age of the tooth, the time since the injury and the clinical and X-ray findings
- Root fracture — the approach depends on the location of the fracture, the mobility of the fragments, the condition of the pulp and whether the tooth can be kept
- A darkened crown after an injury — a reason to assess pulp viability and take dental X-rays
When a tooth restoration is possible
With crown chips, when the root is intact and the pulp is not affected, I consider a tooth restoration (filling) as the first option for keeping the tooth. It restores the shape of the tooth, protects it from further damage and preserves its function.
A detailed description of the technique, the materials and the indications is in the article on tooth restoration (fillings) in dogs. What matters here: not every fracture is suitable for a filling — the decision is individual.
Root canal treatment
If the pulp is affected but the root is intact, root canal treatment can make it possible to keep the tooth. This is especially relevant for canines and chewing teeth, which matter for function.
After endodontic treatment a restoration of the crown is often needed for protection.
When a tooth is extracted
With a root fracture the approach depends on the location of the fracture, the condition of the pulp, the stability of the fragments, the periodontal support and the prognosis of the tooth. Where the prognosis is unfavourable, extraction may be indicated.
Why a dog may keep eating with a broken tooth
Dogs hide pain. An exposed pulp is painful, but a dog may keep eating by chewing on the other side. The owner notices only that it is “slightly chipped” — and puts the visit off.
Once the pulp is exposed, bacterial contamination can lead to pulpitis, death of the pulp and changes around the root tip, so an examination is needed as soon as possible, especially if pink pulp is visible.
What the owner should do
Take away hard toys. Book an examination. Do not wait for it to “go away on its own”. At the appointment I will assess the fracture, take X-rays and propose a plan: restoration, root canal treatment or extraction.
When to see a vet
- Your dog has broken a tooth — an examination is needed as soon as possible, especially if pink pulp is visible
- The tooth has darkened after an injury
- Swelling has appeared under the eye or on the face
- The dog avoids hard food or tries to eat or chew on one side
- An assessment is needed: restoration, root canals or extraction
- More than a few days have passed since the injury — infection may already have developed
- The dog keeps chewing hard objects — a plan to protect the tooth is needed
- A routine follow-up after a restoration or root canal treatment
What not to do at home
- Do not wait to see if it “goes away on its own” — an exposed pulp becomes infected
- Do not give hard toys to a damaged tooth
- Do not decide on your own “save or extract” without X-rays
- Do not give human painkillers instead of an examination
- Do not put it off because the appetite is “normal”
Frequently asked questions
If the pulp is exposed — yes. But dogs often hide pain. An examination is necessary even without obvious complaints.
Rebuilding the shape of the tooth with special materials. More in the separate article on restoration in dogs.
In selected cases the tooth can be kept if the condition of the pulp, the root and the periodontal support allow it. Dental X-rays and the clinical assessment determine the approach.
The cost depends on the type of fracture and the extent of treatment. I give the plan after diagnostics.
Yes, absolutely. Without an image I cannot assess the root or make a decision.
Sources and professional guidelines
- WSAVA Global Dental GuidelinesGlobal guidelines for veterinary dentistry
- AAHA Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and CatsClinical guidelines for dental care
- AVDC NomenclatureAVDC nomenclature and terminology
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