Facial fractures are pretty usual; however, dealing with your pet’s broken jaw can be difficult. It’s tough to see our furry loved ones experiencing discomfort or going through surgery. They will face physical difficulties and some side effects and will be out of their playful habits for a while. We, as owners, don’t want them to experience those as much as possible, but we also need to be prepared if this situation hits them. Let’s dig some information about this fracture.
Possible Causes of Jaw Fracture in Pets
Seeing them hurt is aggravating, and we don’t want them to feel pain for a long time. Here are some causes of jaw fracture.
Vehicular Accident
Watching your pet being struck by any vehicle is a troublesome experience; as a pet owner, you will be in shock, but having a plan of action is required in this type of situation. Jaw and face fracture is common, and you might see mouth bleeding, face bruises, jaw tightness, and in some cases, loosened teeth. You need to remain calm and call the closest emergency veterinarian.
Fights With Other Animals
A fight between two animals, either a canine to a dog or a cat to a dog, can cause jaw fractures. A dog bite can result in tearing, crushing, or tissue laceration. What looks like a small scratch could end up being severe damage, as some infection might happen. Pet owners need to watch for trouble breathing, hopping, weakness, bleeding, and swelling; in some cases, your pet might collapse.
Periodontitis
Untreated, periodontal illness results in periodontitis and would become a severe gum infection; it can lead to serious health complications that can destroy bones that expand and harm the jaw. Take action about this disease since it is extremely harmful to family pets. In many cases, untreated periodontitis may cause death. You can try finding a vet dentist on a website like newhopeanimalhospital.org for more information regarding this disease.
Treatment for Jaw Fracture
Patients who experience injury like a vehicle accident animal fight will be prescribed pain medications, fluid, antibiotics, and X-rays. Veterinarians may require the use of pins, wires, and other materials. Particular treatment will be developed after an evaluation under anesthesia that involves evaluation of tooth structures, bone, and blood vessels/nerves, dental Xrays, complete blood count, urinalysis, skull Xrays, and sometimes, CT scan. Many jaw fractures undergo surgical treatment. If you need to find a vet clinic that offers a wide range of surgical procedures, you can click here.
Vets will use methods concentrating on tooth and jaw alignment, including selective tooth extraction, bone grafting, intraoral composite splints, bonding of teeth, and in some cases, titanium plates. Owners must follow veterinarians’ instructions after treatment and be sure to go to follow-up checkups even if your pet looks much better.
After Treatment Care for Jaw Fracture
Giving them food is the main concern of most family pet owners after jaw treatment/ surgery. Your Dallas veterinary clinic doctor will advise you of how often to feed them. Their hunger usually returns after a day; Some pets require a feeding tube to eat since chewing can be tricky. In some, a soft diet is suggested, like softened kibbles. Pet activities like running, leaping, or other strenuous activities should be restricted for a week after surgery. Keeping them entertained during healing can be helpful; a petting session will relieve stress and encourage bond.
