Symptom
Facial swelling in a dog or cat
Swelling above a canine tooth or along the jaw often points to a root abscess or trauma.
Most common possible causes
- —Root abscess
- —Retained root
- —Trauma
- —Growth/tumour
When it's urgent
- ✓Any facial swelling
- ✓Drooling
- ✓Fever or lethargy
What not to do at home
- —Don't puncture the swelling
- —Don't delay a visit
What diagnostics may be needed
- ✓Examination
- ✓Dental radiography
- ✓COHAT
The source of infection is often under the gumline or in the bone. The exact cause can only be established after an examination and any necessary diagnostics.
How treatment may proceed
- ✓Extraction of the diseased tooth/root
- ✓Treatment of the tissue
- ✓Antibacterial therapy as indicated
Related services
Related clinical case
Dental disease in a cat: a broken canine tooth of 3+ years' standing
View the broken canine tooth case →Similar symptoms
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