Cat With Toothbrush

Pet Orthodontics

Sometimes pets may need help with their bite. They may have a malocclusion due to misaligned teeth, an overbite, or other abnormalities. At Village Animal Clinic, P.C., we can treat malocclusions with pet orthodontic treatment.

What Is Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontics is the dentistry specialty of working with improperly aligned teeth and occlusion abnormalities. It commonly involves the practice of moving teeth and correcting the bite to relieve pain.

Dogs are the most common type of pets to receive pet orthodontic care, though cats can have malocclusions and require treatment.

Benefits of Pet Orthodontics

Animals who receive orthodontic care can correct their bites, making it more comfortable and functional to move their jaws. Orthodontics can treat pets that suffer from oral pain due to a traumatic malocclusion as well as prevent consequences of the malocclusion that can be substantial. Some conditions orthodontic treatments can help include overbites, base narrow canine teeth, a rostral crossbite, and mesioversion of the upper canine tooth.

How Pet Orthodontics Work

Each orthodontic treatment depends on what the patient needs to help with their occlusion. Veterinary dentists or a resident will assess a pet’s teeth and occlusion, see how the jaw moves, and look for pain-causing abnormalities. Once the dentist or resident concludes their findings, they will determine how to proceed and what orthodontic treatment is best suited for each pet.

Braces are orthodontic appliances used to move teeth into a less painful position instead of extracting teeth. Though braces aren’t the only option to relieve pain from malocclusions, they can be the best solution.  Pets who need orthodontic care must be healthy enough to undergo anesthesia. The anesthesia allows the veterinarian to take x-rays, do the necessary cleanings and apply the braces. Depending on the condition, orthodontic treatment can last a few weeks or a few months.

Your regular vet can refer you and your pet to us for any dental care treatment. We can develop a plan for pets who need pet orthodontic treatment and support them before, during, and after.

Pet Orthodontics In Farmington, MI

Malocclusions are uncomfortable and can be painful for pets to live with. Orthodontics for pets is a solution to correct your pet’s bite and make them comfortable. At Village Animal Clinic, P.C., we can provide pet orthodontic treatments to help relieve your pet’s pain. We’re located in Farmington, Michigan, and serve the surrounding areas, including Detroit, Livonia, Ann Arbor, and more. To find out more about our services or schedule an appointment, you can fill out our contact form or call us today at 248-477-0344.