Everything You Need to Know About Pet Mandibular Fracture

Facial fractures are pretty usual; however, dealing with your pet’s broken jaw can be challenging. It’s tough to see our furry loved ones experiencing pain or going through surgical treatment. They will deal with physical difficulties and some adverse effects and will be out of their playful habits for a while. We, as owners, do not want them to experience those as much as possible; however, we also have to be prepared if this situation hits them. Let’s dig some info 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 very long time. Here are some causes of jaw fracture.

Vehicular Accident

Watching your family pet being hit by any vehicle is a bothersome 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 may see mouth bleeding, face bruises, jaw stiffness, and sometimes loosened teeth. You need to stay calm and call the closest emergency veterinarian.

Fights With Other Animals

A fight between two animals, either a canine to a canine or a cat to a canine, can trigger jaw fractures. A dog bite can result in tearing, crushing, or tissue laceration. What looks like a small scratch might end up being serious damage, as some infection might occur. Family pet owners should watch for trouble breathing, limping, weakness, bleeding, and swelling; sometimes, your family pet may collapse.

Periodontitis

Untreated, periodontal disease results in periodontitis and would end up being a severe gum infection; it can cause serious health problems that can damage bones that expand and harm the jaw. Take action about this illness since it is very harmful to pets. In most cases, neglected periodontitis might lead to death. You can click here if you want to know about this gum 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. Vets might require the use of pins, wires, and other materials. Particular treatment will be developed after an examination under anesthesia that involves assessment of tooth structures, bone, and blood vessels/nerves, dental Xrays, complete blood count, urinalysis, skull Xrays, and in some cases, CT scan. A lot of jaw fractures undergo surgical treatment, and you will need a vet surgeon to perform it for the safety of your pet.

Veterinarians will use techniques concentrating on tooth and jaw alignment, including selective tooth extraction, bone grafting, intraoral composite splints, bonding of teeth, and sometimes titanium plates. Owners should follow veterinarians’ guidelines after treatment and make sure to go to follow-up checkups even if your family pet looks much better.

After Treatment Care for Jaw Fracture

Giving them food is the primary concern of most family pet owners after jaw treatment/ surgery. Your vet will advise you of how frequently to feed them. Their appetite usually returns after a day; Some pets require a feeding tube to eat since chewing can be tricky. In some, a soft diet is advisable, like softened kibbles. Pet activities like running, jumping, or other strenuous activities must be limited for a week after surgical treatment. Keeping them entertained throughout healing can be helpful; a petting session will ease stress and encourage bond.

Moreover, in meeting all your pet needs, you should find a trusted vet, visit them often to avoid many diseases and learn more about the proper way to take care of them.