My dog's loose tooth fell out. Does a black root mean infection?

Question

I posted a question last week about my dog's upper molar(the one behind the carnassial) was loose & he frequently got infections. Another problem was that he has DCM so it was too risky to put him under anesthetic for a dental. Well today, the tooth has come out by itself. In the attached photos, it shows the root is black-does this mean the tooth is full of infection? He is currently on antibiotics and has 3 days left. Also does it look ok? Like has it come out ok? I also flush with saline. Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 9 years and 2 months old | 8 lbs

Daniel Fonza, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. Judging from the pictures you provided, the tooth looks as though it was quite infected especially if it fell out on its own. A lot of times, teeth that are this infected that Fall out have also lost some of the root characteristics. By this I mean the roots will sometimes appear as though they are missing or very rounded and short as opposed to their healthier appearance. A lot of times these teeth will have a black discoloration if the tooth is dead or may appear black due to the Tartar and plaque that has grown on the surface of the tooth. Flushing with saline is fine and the hole where the tooth previously was should heal on its own now that the problematic tooth is out of the tooth socket. I would definitely consider keeping him on antibiotics and also do what we call Pulse antibiotic therapy. I did this with my own dog and would Place him on a course of antibiotics every other month at a high dose using clindamycin as my primary choice as it is very good for bone and dental infections. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions or concerns. I am also available by phone or text based consultation if needed.

My dog's loose tooth fell out. Does a black root mean infection?

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