How to Recognize Your Dog Has an Abcessed Tooth

An abcessed tooth hurts when a human has it, but on a dog it is a little harder to detect. Your four legged family member may not be able to say, "My tooth hurts." But keep an eye on your dog for changes in eating, behavior, and knots on the nose area.

You should take your pet to the vet immediately for treatment.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Watch your dog

1. BE ON THE LOOKOUT - Dogs cannot tell us what is wrong, but keep an eye on their behavior to note some changes.
   
   If your dog has a swollen nose, take note it could be an indication that an abcess is beginning.
   
   Note these things as well:
   - Changes in eating patterns
   - Bad breath
   - Seeing a broken, loose or discolored tooth
   - Dog may scratch at nose
   - There is no "good way" to say this - but the dog may act like it has a bad taste in its mouth from the drainage

2. AT HOME TREATMENT
   
   There is little you can do.
   
   You may want to make an ice pack and keep it on the abcessed tooth.
   
   You may want to give your dog some wet dog food for easier chewing.
   
   *** NOTE - Your dog may get sick to their stomach ***

3. 
   Antirobe Aquadrops and Dropper

   SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH YOUR VET -
   
   Your vet will want to see if the abcessed tooth needs to be pulled or if it can be treated with antibiotics and pain medicine. The vet may also want to drain the abcess. In 7 to 10 days there should be a follow up visit.
   
   This is an ailment that you may not be able to treat without the help of a veterinarian.

4. PREVENTION AND TREATMENT
   
   Begin a tooth brushing program for your dog.
   Get your vet and groomer to check their oral hygeine on regular visits.

Tips & Warnings

• If your vet gives a liquid antibiotic, ask for a medicine dropper so you can get the medicine in. Blow on their nose so they can swallow quickly.
• Do not treat the abcessed tooth at home.

Resources

• How to Brush Your Dogs Teeth
• PetSmart - Dog Oral Health Products
• Petco - Dog Oral Health Products
• Hill's Science Diet - Dog Oral Healh

[klnygaard]

on 6/15/2009 good info- I have had an absessed tooth and it was the worst pain I have ever experienced- never thought about it with an animal- 5 stars

[gahazeleyes]

on 5/29/2009 Good information for people with dogs. Thanks

[veryirie]

on 5/25/2009 Our dogs are like members of the family so thanks much for telling us about this ailment. Our dog thanks you too. :)

[sonni57]

on 5/15/2009 We do need to care for our dog's and other pets teeth thanks for the helpful article.

[Alrady]

on 5/13/2009 GREAT article..... thanks