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My adopted dog has a broken tooth. Do I need to see a vet urgently?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pekingese | Male | neutered | 2 years and 1 month old | 13 lbs

I recently adopted a dog from the shelter and noticed he has a broken tooth. Should I be concerned?

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Eryn Taormina, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 8th, 2019

Hi there! I'm sorry to hear about Mars' troubles. It's a bit hard to see from the pictures but the tooth definitely looks a little bit discolored. And it almost looks like what we call a "slab fracture" where a flat, wide piece of the tooth breaks off. Dogs can do this by biting onto something hard, like a bone. This can expose the inside of the tooth to infection, and also be very uncomfortable. I would definitely have a veterinarian take a look at the tooth, to see if it should be extracted under anesthesia as this is the best way to treat a tooth like this. By removing the tooth, one removes the source, or potential source, of pain and discomfort. The veterinarian can also clean the rest of the teeth too, which would be great for Mars' overall health. Best of luck!

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3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Sarah Box, BVSc

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 15th, 2017

    Poor Jenny!! If you are able to have her evaluated by a veterinarian that would be good. If they are not able to do an extraction (I do not know what level of care you have available where you are) they can at least prescribe some antibiotics to help prevent infection, and some pain medications as well. Once you are back in the U.K. please have Je by looked at as soon as possible-the tooth will need to be removed I suspect.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on February 29th, 2020

    You should have her seen by your veterinarian to confirm the entire tooth came out. Any small remnant of tooth or tooth root left in can lead to infection. Her adult canine should erupt and take the place.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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