Orthodontia for the family may now include the family dog. A dental veterinarian can tell you if braces will keep your dog happy and healthy.
Doggy dental hygiene is important. Good canine dental care includes regular brushing and regular cleanings. It may now also include braces for just a few teeth or the whole set.
Only recently have veterinarians realized that orthodontic problems can be treated with the use of appliances such as braces, bands and retainers. Not too long ago, offending teeth would have been simply extracted, but aligning them into proper position provides the dog with a functional bite which leads to healthier teeth and better overall health. Braces are rarely applied in dogs for cosmetic purposes but for pain relief and medical benefit.
Normal alignment, or occlusion, of canine teeth, is called the scissor bite. In cases of malocclusion, or poorly aligned teeth, dogs can suffer soft tissue damage, excessive tooth wear, pain in the joint of the jaw, or periodontal disease. These cases, as well as injuries, retained baby teeth or hereditary abnormalities, can benefit from braces. In the case of hereditary abnormalities, the dog should not be bred and allowed to pass them on. Interestingly, many of the AKC breeds, such as the American Bulldog, are bred for a malocclusion which is accepted in breed standards.
A dental veterinarian must determine in each individual case if braces are appropriate and if their benefits outweigh the risks of repeated anesthesia. Dogs receiving braces are first x-rayed, then anesthetized while an impression mold of the mouth is made. The lab uses this to make an appliance with just the right fit. When the appliance is put into place, the dog must be anesthetized again. Afterward, the vet will want to see him every week or so for checkups and adjustments.
In addition to paying the price which generally ranges from $1000 to $2000, owners must be diligent with home care. They will need to brush the dog’s teeth daily and apply an antiseptic spray to prevent plaque build-up. They also must learn how to make minor adjustments from time to time and to watch for irritation or infection.
It’s not fun and games for the dog either. Dogs with braces must give up hard food and chew toys until the hardware is removed. Occasionally, a long haired dog will have to wear an Elizabethan collar if difficulty is encountered with hair snagging on braces. They may also experience pain or soreness after adjustments. Fortunately, the treatment is usually completed in weeks or months instead of years, as in humans.
If your dog appears to have mouth tenderness, difficulty eating, or a swollen area on the face, ask your veterinarian to check his teeth.
