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Broken, damaged or missing teeth
A small chip or discoloured tooth can need veterinary assessment.
Why a fracture matters
A fracture can expose dentine or the pulp, the tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. Damage may be painful and allow infection even when the tooth looks only slightly chipped. Hard chews and trauma are possible causes. A dog may continue eating, so do not use appetite to decide whether treatment is necessary.
What to report
Tell your vet when you noticed the damage, any injury or chewing event, colour changes, bleeding, swelling or altered eating. A pink, red or dark point in a broken tooth can be concerning, but owners cannot reliably judge the depth of injury. A discoloured or unexpectedly missing adult tooth also needs review.
While arranging care
Avoid hard chews and do not probe, file or glue the tooth. Do not try to pull a loose tooth or give human painkillers. Ask the practice about suitable food if chewing is uncomfortable. If a tooth disappears after trauma, a fragment or root may remain; examination and dental imaging may be needed.
Treatment depends on the findings
The vet may discuss extraction, specialist treatment or monitoring for a limited type of injury. The decision depends on the tooth, fracture, infection and dog’s circumstances, not appearance alone. Explain any financial constraints so options can be discussed. Follow the treatment and review plan even if your dog appears comfortable again.
Continue your care plan
Dental & Oral Health · Keeping my dog healthy · New symptoms: find the right next step
Evidence and review
General information, not diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Sources include veterinary professional guidance, veterinary charities and relevant regional parasite organisations. Clinical recommendations need individual veterinary interpretation.
About this guidanceReview details and sources
Evidence and review
Reviewed 2 October 2026 · Review sooner if advice, distribution or requirements change.