Have you ever noticed your pet’s tooth turning dark or that they are acting strange while eating? If yes, it could be a sign of a dead tooth. It is a problem that’s easy to ignore but becomes very serious once overlooked. In this blog, we will discuss the hidden causes of a dead tooth and dental care for dogs. You will also read the risks of non-vital teeth. Let’s explore!
What Causes Discolored Teeth?
External Stains From Food, Drinks, And Habits
The discolored teeth can be caused by external stains from food and drinks. For example, if your pet consumes dark-colored treats and chew sticks, it creates surface stains. When they get such stains, it affects the outer layer of the tooth. This is called enamel.
Having enamel doesn’t mean the tooth is dead. But still, it should be checked during regular dental visits as it changes the color of your pet’s teeth. Apart from that, if you smoke around your pet or ignore their dental hygiene, it affects their teeth. Therefore,
Internal Changes From Injury Or Decay
Apart from surface stains, internal changes from injury also change the color of your dog’s teeth. It is usually a sign that something is wrong inside the tooth. How does it change color? When your pet injures their mouth while playing, it may damage the blood supply. With time, this causes the tooth to die or change color. The tooth may turn gray or even purple.
Such changes usually don’t fix themselves. So, it is important to see a pet dental specialist. These changes of color might mean the tooth is non-vital and needs treatment.
How Are Non-Vital Teeth Treated?
Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is a treatment used to save a tooth that is no longer alive. In pets, this involves removing the damaged tissue inside the tooth, cleaning out the infection, and sealing the space to prevent future issues. It helps your pet keep their tooth instead of needing it pulled.
A veterinary dentist uses special tools to do this safely under anesthesia. Once the tooth is cleaned and filled, your pet can go back to normal chewing without pain. It’s a helpful way to treat non-vital teeth and avoid infections.
Internal Bleaching
Sometimes, after a tooth dies, it becomes dark and stands out from the others. If the tooth is still healthy on the outside, internal bleaching can help improve its color. It is included in dental care for dogs. This bleaching is done after a root canal. The vet dentist places a safe whitening gel inside the tooth and seals it for a few days.
This lightens the tooth from the inside, making it match your pet’s other teeth. It’s only done when the tooth is strong and doesn’t need to be removed. While it’s mostly cosmetic, it can restore a clean, healthy look.
Crown Placement For Protection
After treating a non-vital tooth, your vet may recommend placing a crown. A crown is a strong cover made of metal or ceramic that fits over the tooth. It protects the tooth from breaking, especially if it’s been weakened by injury or treatment.
Pets use their teeth for chewing, playing, and holding things, so a treated tooth can still face pressure. A crown helps it stay strong and lasts longer. It also makes the tooth look better. This simple step keeps your pet’s tooth safe and working, even after a root canal.
Why See An Expert Veterinary Dentist For Treatment Of Non-Vital Teeth?
Accurate Diagnosis And Advanced Imaging
Veterinary dentists use special tools like dental X-rays and oral exams to spot non-vital teeth. These tools let them see inside the tooth and below the gumline. It is something a regular exam can’t show. Without imaging, it’s hard to tell if a tooth is truly dead or just discolored.
These experts know what signs to look for and can make a clear diagnosis. Catching the problem early means your pet gets treated before things get worse. A proper diagnosis is the first step to solving the issue and keeping your pet healthy and pain-free.
Specialized Treatment Techniques
Expert veterinary dentists are trained to handle complex dental problems in animals. They use special equipment and gentle methods to provide pet dental care. Whether it’s a root canal, internal bleaching, or placing a crown, they know how to perform these treatments safely under anesthesia.
Their experience ensures your pet stays comfortable and stress-free during the procedure. These experts also know how to manage pain afterward and guide healing. Pets have unique needs, and a specialist understands how to meet them. This level of care gives your pet the best chance at a smooth recovery.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat A Non-Vital Tooth?
Chronic Pain And Discomfort
Even though pets can’t speak, a non-vital tooth can still hurt them. As the tooth decays or becomes infected, it can cause pressure and pain, especially when eating or chewing. Your pet might start avoiding food, pawing at their mouth, or acting irritable. The pain doesn’t go away on its own and usually gets worse over time.
Some pets may hide their discomfort, so it’s easy to miss. That’s why regular checkups matter. Ignoring the problem means your pet may suffer quietly for a long time without relief.
Spread Of Infection To Other Areas
A non-vital tooth may seem like a small problem, but it can cause big health issues if left untreated. Bacteria from the infected tooth can travel through the bloodstream to other parts of your pet’s body. This can affect organs like the heart, liver, or kidneys, leading to serious illness.
Pets with weakened immune systems are especially at risk. What starts as a tooth problem can turn into a life-threatening condition. Treating it early stops the spread and protects your pet’s overall health. That’s why expert dental care is so important.
Conclusion
When you ignore a non-vital tooth in your pet, it may lead to major pain and health risks for them. That’s why early animal dental care and oral surgery are important. It prevents complications and keeps your loved ones comfortable. So, if you notice signs of a dead tooth in your pet, don’t wait. To get the best veterinary experience, you can contact Atlas Pet Hospital.