"My dog Duke had a traumatic jaw injury and required surgery. The staff here not only took care of Duke but also were very responsive and helpful to me. I wish they did more than veterinary dentistry because I would take Duke here for everything."
Duke Parson
A broken jaw is not only painful, but it can also make it difficult for your pet to eat, drink, or even breathe comfortably. At our Western Montana veterinary dental hospital, we understand how distressing this situation can be, for pets and their families. Our Board Certified Veterinary Dentists® provide expert jaw fracture repair for dogs and cats, offering both surgical and non-surgical options to restore alignment, relieve pain, and help your pet heal safely.
If your pet has suffered facial trauma or is struggling to open or close their mouth, please contact us right away. Prompt treatment is essential for the best outcome.
Causes and Types of Jaw Fractures in Pets
Jaw fractures in animals can occur suddenly or develop over time from underlying conditions. Understanding the cause and type of fracture helps guide the most effective treatment plan.
Types of jaw fractures include maxillary fractures that involve the upper jawbone, and mandibular fractures that occur in the lower jaw. Because these fractures can be extremely painful and affect your pet’s ability to eat or breathe, jaw fractures are always considered a medical emergency.
Common causes include:
- Trauma: Falls, car accidents, or being struck by an object are leading causes.
- Fights with other animals: Fighting is especially common in outdoor cats or active dogs.
- Dental disease: Severe periodontal disease can weaken the jawbone until it fractures under normal pressure.
- Oral tumors or cysts: These can erode bone tissue, leaving the jaw fragile and prone to breakage.
Treatment Options for Jaw Fractures in Pets
Every fracture is unique, and our Board Certified Veterinary Dentists® tailor treatment to your pet’s specific needs, considering the location, severity, and cause of the injury.
Conservative Management
For mild fractures where the bone remains properly aligned, a conservative approach may be used. Pets are placed on a soft or liquid diet while being closely monitored for healing. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications are prescribed to keep your pet comfortable throughout recovery.
Closed Reduction & Stabilization
In some cases, fractures can be realigned without surgical exposure of the bone. Under anesthesia, the fractured segments are gently repositioned and stabilized using splints, acrylic appliances, or wire fixation techniques.
Open Reduction & Internal Fixation (ORIF)
For more severe or unstable fractures, surgical repair is required. During ORIF, our veterinarian exposes and realigns the fractured bone segments, securing them with miniature bone plates, screws, or orthopedic wires.
Rebuild Strength and Comfort for Your Pet
With timely, expert care, most pets recover well from jaw fractures and go on to lead happy, healthy lives. At Missoula Veterinary Dentistry, our goal is to relieve pain, restore normal function, and protect your pet’s oral health for years to come.
If your dog or cat has suffered a jaw injury, or you suspect one, please contact us immediately for evaluation and treatment.
