Dogs love to chew. But sometimes that chewing leads to a broken tooth—and many pet owners are left wondering if it’s serious. While not every chipped tooth is an emergency, some broken dog teeth can cause pain, infection, or other serious health issues.
This guide will help you understand when a broken dog tooth is an emergency, how to spot the warning signs, and what to do next.
Is a Broken Tooth in Dogs an Emergency?
A broken tooth in a dog can be an emergency if the pulp (inner part of the tooth) is exposed, your dog is in pain, or there are signs of infection like swelling or bleeding. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications like abscesses or jaw problems.
If your dog has a broken tooth and is acting uncomfortable, the safest move is to contact a 24 hour emergency vet for guidance or treatment.
How to Tell If Your Dog Has a Broken Tooth
Some dogs show obvious signs of pain when a tooth breaks, while others hide their discomfort. Here’s what to watch for:
- Visible crack or missing piece of tooth
- Swelling around the face or mouth
- Drooling more than usual
- Refusing to eat or only chewing on one side
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing face on furniture
- Bad breath (could mean infection)
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to book an emergency dental exam at your nearest emergency animal hospital.
Types of Broken Dog Teeth and What They Mean
Not all broken teeth are the same. The type and location of the break will affect whether it’s an emergency:
| Type of Tooth Break | Emergency Level |
|---|---|
| Minor chip, no bleeding or pain | Low – Monitor and follow up with vet |
| Broken tooth with pulp exposure | High – Emergency dental care needed |
| Fracture with swelling or infection | High – Needs urgent treatment |
| Bleeding from mouth with pain | High – Go to emergency vet |
| Tooth loose or hanging by root | Medium to High – Call vet immediately |
Remember, even small cracks can cause issues over time. A professional exam is the only way to know for sure what’s going on beneath the surface.
Can a Dog Live with a Broken Tooth?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Dogs are tough animals and often hide pain, but that doesn’t mean they’re okay. A broken tooth can:
- Become infected or form an abscess
- Cause long-term pain and discomfort
- Affect their eating and overall health
- Lead to jawbone problems if untreated
Delaying treatment could lead to more expensive procedures later. To avoid bigger problems, visit a 24 hour vet clinic as soon as possible if you suspect a broken tooth.
Common Causes of Broken Teeth in Dogs
Dogs can break a tooth in several ways. Here are the most common causes:
- Chewing hard objects like bones, antlers, or stones
- Biting metal crate bars or fences
- Rough play or accidents (like falls or getting hit)
- Advanced dental disease weakening the tooth
To help prevent this, avoid giving your dog overly hard chew toys and have regular dental checkups.
What Will the Vet Do for a Broken Tooth?
If you visit an emergency vet hospital for a broken tooth, here’s what usually happens:
- Exam – They’ll check the tooth and surrounding tissue
- X-rays – To see the root and check for internal damage
- Treatment plan – Based on damage and your dog’s comfort level
Treatment options may include:
- Tooth extraction (removal)
- Root canal (in some advanced clinics)
- Pain relief and antibiotics
- Follow-up dental care
The earlier you go, the more options you may have for saving the tooth and reducing pain.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Broken Dog Tooth?
Emergency dental care for dogs in the UK varies depending on the clinic and the treatment needed. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Treatment | Estimated Cost (UK) |
|---|---|
| Emergency exam | £100 – £250 |
| Dental X-rays | £150 – £400 |
| Tooth extraction | £300 – £800 |
| Root canal (specialist) | £1,000 – £2,000 |
| Pain medication & antibiotics | £50 – £200 |
If cost is a concern, contact a 24 hour emergency vet clinic near you to ask about options, insurance coverage, or payment plans.
Tips to Prevent Broken Teeth in Dogs
Prevention is always better than emergency care. Here are some tips to protect your dog’s teeth:
- Skip hard bones, antlers, or nylon chews
- Use vet-approved dental toys
- Supervise chewing sessions
- Schedule yearly dental exams
- Brush your dog’s teeth regularly if possible
Keeping your dog’s teeth healthy means fewer emergencies—and fewer expensive trips to the vet.
What to Do at Home If Your Dog Breaks a Tooth
If you think your dog has broken a tooth and your vet isn’t open, here’s what you can do while you get help:
- Keep your dog calm and avoid touching the sore area
- Don’t try to remove anything stuck in the mouth
- Avoid giving hard food—try soft meals instead
- Monitor for swelling, bleeding, or signs of pain
- Use 24houremergencyvet.com to find a nearby 24 hour animal hospital
Acting fast can prevent infections and reduce your dog’s suffering.
Conclusion
A broken dog tooth may not seem like an emergency at first, but it can cause serious pain and long-term damage if ignored. If you see signs of discomfort, exposed pulp, or infection, don’t wait. Take your dog to a vet immediately for an exam and treatment options.
Need fast help? Visit 24houremergencyvet.com to find a trusted 24 hour emergency vet near you—available any time, day or night.