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Orthodontic

Welcome to Animal Dental Clinic, where we provide advanced veterinary orthodontics for dogs and cats with malocclusions and abnormal tooth positioning. Orthodontic treatment in pets is not cosmetic. It is medically necessary to relieve pain, prevent trauma, and restore proper oral function.

Our specialty dental team focuses on improving bite alignment to enhance comfort, chewing ability, and long-term oral health.

What Is Veterinary Orthodontics?

Veterinary orthodontics is the diagnosis and correction of abnormal tooth positioning (malocclusion) that causes pain, trauma, or functional problems.

Unlike human orthodontics, which is often cosmetic, veterinary orthodontic treatment is performed strictly for medical reasons. When teeth are misaligned, they may:

  • Penetrate or injure soft tissue
  • Cause chronic pain
  • Interfere with normal chewing
  • Lead to premature tooth wear
  • Increase risk of periodontal disease

Orthodontic intervention aims to restore a comfortable, functional bite.

Common Orthodontic Conditions in Pets

Pets may require orthodontic treatment for conditions such as:

  • Base-narrow mandibular canines (lower canines hitting the palate)
  • Lingually displaced teeth
  • Retained deciduous (baby) teeth
  • Overbite (mandibular distoclusion)
  • Underbite (mandibular mesioclusion)
  • Traumatic tooth-to-soft tissue contact

Early evaluation is especially important in growing puppies to prevent long-term complications.

What to Expect During an Orthodontic Evaluation

Our orthodontic approach is thorough and individualized.

Comprehensive Oral Examination

We begin with a detailed oral examination to assess bite alignment, jaw structure, and tooth positioning. This evaluation determines whether intervention is medically necessary.

Dental Radiographs

Dental radiographs are often used to evaluate root positioning and surrounding bone health. Imaging ensures accurate diagnosis before any orthodontic treatment is planned.

Treatment Planning

Orthodontic treatment options may include:

  • Selective extraction of problematic teeth
  • Orthodontic appliances to reposition teeth
  • Crown height reduction and vital pulp therapy
  • Monitoring during growth and development

Our veterinary dental specialists determine the safest and most effective approach based on your pet’s age, condition, and long-term comfort.

Orthodontic Appliance Placement (When Indicated)

If an orthodontic appliance is recommended, it is placed under anesthesia and carefully adjusted to gradually reposition the affected tooth or teeth.

Treatment duration varies depending on the severity of malocclusion.

Why Veterinary Orthodontics Is Important

Malocclusions can cause chronic pain and soft tissue trauma if left untreated. Early intervention can prevent:

  • Palatal wounds
  • Chronic oral discomfort
  • Abnormal tooth wear
  • Secondary infections
  • Jaw growth complications

Correcting bite abnormalities improves function, reduces pain, and supports long-term oral health.

Is My Pet a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?

Your pet may benefit from orthodontic evaluation if you notice:

  • Lower canine teeth contacting the roof of the mouth
  • Persistent oral bleeding or sores
  • Difficulty closing the mouth comfortably
  • Uneven tooth wear
  • Retained baby teeth past six months of age

Puppies and young dogs benefit from early screening to identify developmental issues.

Why Choose Animal Dental Clinic for Orthodontics?

Animal Dental Clinic specializes exclusively in advanced veterinary dentistry and oral surgery.

  • Expertise in veterinary orthodontics
  • Advanced diagnostic imaging
  • Customized treatment plans
  • Safe anesthesia and monitoring
  • Collaboration with referring veterinarians
  • Focus on medical necessity and long-term comfort

We prioritize functional correction and patient wellbeing above all else.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is orthodontic treatment cosmetic for pets?

No. Veterinary orthodontics is performed strictly for medical reasons to relieve pain and prevent injury.

At what age should my puppy be evaluated?

Orthodontic screening is recommended around 5–7 months of age, especially if abnormal bite alignment is suspected.

Will my pet need anesthesia?

Yes. Orthodontic evaluations and appliance placement require anesthesia for precision and safety.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment time varies depending on the severity of the condition.

How do I schedule an orthodontic consultation?

Contact Animal Dental Clinic to schedule a veterinary orthodontic evaluation or request a referral appointment.

Schedule an Orthodontics Consultation

If your pet has bite abnormalities or signs of oral discomfort, trust Animal Dental Clinic for advanced veterinary orthodontics. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Our team is committed to restoring proper bite alignment, relieving discomfort, and supporting lifelong oral health through specialized orthodontic care.