Our dogs and cats eventually become another family member, and as such, we strive to provide them with the best quality of life possible. Caring for their oral health is undoubtedly a key piece of their well-being and, in the long run, can help prevent much more serious diseases. At times, orthodontics turns out to be the most suitable treatment for achieving a correct and functional bite.
There are orthodontic solutions for both dogs and cats. It may seem surprising at first, but this isn’t just an aesthetic measure; it’s genuinely useful for correcting dental misalignments that could lead to more serious consequences. Additionally, it has the advantage of being less invasive than performing a dental extraction.
The treatment duration is relatively short, lasting a few weeks to a couple of months, unlike humans, where correction can take years. This type of oral procedure should be recommended by a specialized veterinarian, who must also be the one to place the orthodontics.
Orthodontics in dogs and cats arises from a series of visible problems, such as misaligned teeth or difficulty closing the mouth.
Conditions that need correction through orthodontic devices are malocclusions. The placement of the device is performed under anesthesia, so the animal must be in good health and able to tolerate the procedure.
It’s not recommended for all dogs and cats. Therefore, a specialized study should be conducted beforehand using intraoral X-rays and/or CT scans to ensure there are no abnormalities that contraindicate this treatment.
Typically, after the placement of the device, the diet should be somewhat softer, and special emphasis should be placed on maintaining oral hygiene. Daily brushing is an essential part of the routine, but it's not the only consideration, as there are other preventive options based on antiseptic products. It will also be necessary to monitor our dog or cat to prevent them from biting or playing with any objects that could damage the device.
In conclusion, a healthy mouth is one of the most effective ways to prevent health problems. Orthodontics should never be considered a treatment option when the issue is purely aesthetic; its purpose must be to avoid discomfort and pain in our patients.
At IVeM, we have a team of specialized veterinarians ready to perform dental check-ups for your furry friend and always available to answer any questions you may have.
