“At 4 months, our miniature schnauzer Penny, was diagnosed with an overbite that was starting to cause dental issues. We were worried about her comfort and long-term health, but the team at Missoula Veterinary Dentistry walked us through every option & put us at ease. Vital pulp therapy was the best option to save her lower teeth and prevent future problems — and the results have been incredible. Penny recovered quickly, is pain-free, and is living a normal life now. We’re so grateful for the skill, care, and attention the entire team gave to Penny. They didn’t just treat her teeth — they gave her the chance to grow up happy and healthy. We wouldn’t trust anyone else with her teeth.”
Pippa Burke & Brent Nading
A broken tooth doesn’t have to mean a lifetime of dental issues for your puppy. Our Missoula Veterinary Dentistry team performs vital pulp therapy for dogs to help save acutely fractured young teeth, preventing pain, infection, and premature tooth loss. This emergency endodontic treatment keeps the developing tooth alive and healthy, allowing it to continue maturing naturally. Timing is critical for young dogs with sudden tooth fractures, as vital pulp therapy is most effective when performed within 48 hours of injury.
If your puppy has broken a tooth, contact our team or have your family veterinarian reach out right away to discuss care options.
What Is Vital Pulp Therapy?
Vital pulp therapy is a specialized dental procedure used to preserve the vitality of an exposed or injured tooth in young dogs, typically between 6 and 16 months old. When the inner pulp of a developing tooth becomes exposed, often from a sudden fracture while chewing or playing, the living tissue is at risk of infection and death.
During vital pulp therapy, the damaged portion of the pulp is carefully removed, and a medicated dressing is placed over the remaining healthy pulp to encourage healing and continued root development. The tooth is then sealed and restored to prevent further trauma or bacterial contamination. This process allows the tooth to remain alive, functional, and strong throughout the dog’s life.
Benefits of Vital Pulp Therapy
Unlike a root canal, which removes all pulp tissue, vital pulp therapy preserves healthy pulp, keeping the tooth strong, functional, and naturally aligned.
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Maintains Natural Tooth Structure
By saving the tooth, vital pulp therapy preserves proper bite alignment, chewing ability, and natural dentition. Maintaining the tooth also reduces the risk of future dental complications like uneven wear or misalignment.
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Brings Lasting Comfort and Relief
Fractured teeth are painful and can affect appetite, energy, and behavior. Vital pulp therapy removes inflamed pulp while protecting healthy tissue, allowing your dog to eat, play, and chew comfortably again.
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Enhances Lifelong Oral Health
A preserved tooth contributes to a balanced and healthy mouth. Functional teeth help control plaque, maintain oral structures, and support overall oral hygiene as your dog grows.
Act Quickly to Protect Your Dog’s Smile
Vital pulp therapy is a time-sensitive treatment that can make all the difference for a young dog with an acute tooth fracture. Prompt care within 48 hours gives your pet the best chance to preserve their natural tooth and avoid future dental complications.
If your puppy or adolescent dog injures a tooth, contact us or have your veterinarian reach out immediately.
