Accepted Answer

Hi lorraine,

Diesel is wearing his canine teeth down at an accelerated rate...dogs that do this are usually chewing on, or playing with things (like rocks!) when they have the opportunity.

I doubt that he is experiencing any pain...he is showing no reluctance to things in his mouth, and is eating without problems, isn't he? Even broken teeth don't seem to elicit the response that we would have. Animals feel pain, but are more reluctant to show it, but in this case, I don't feel it's a reluctance.

What to do? Well, Veterinary Dentistry is very much developed in the last 20 years. Cavities can be filled if you feel it's appropriate. Crowns, and whole dental implants are even a reality nowadays. Another reality is that they usually are broken off because the animal continues it's destructive ways. I guess they don't have any conception of how expensive they are, and are not prone to be careful of them.

I hope this is helpful, and best wishes.

Edited by XXXXX XXXXXXX, DVM on 4/21/2008 at 5:04 PM

Expert:	Peter Bennett, DVM
Pos. Feedback:	99.7 %
Accepts:
Answered:	4/21/2008

Veterinarian

20 years experience as a Small Animal veterinarian