Understanding Root Fractures and When Oral Surgery Is Needed

Most people don’t think much about their pet’s teeth until something seems off. One of those issues that can sneak up? A root fracture. It sounds serious because, well—it kind of is. If you’re in Longview, WA and looking for a veterinarian near you who knows pet dental issues inside and out, Houndstooth Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Surgery is a solid place to start.

So, What’s a Root Fracture?

Basically, it’s a crack in the part of the tooth you can’t see—the root that’s tucked under the gum. These usually happen when dogs (or sometimes cats) bite down on something really hard, like a bone or rock. Some pets show signs, some don’t. You might notice swelling, bad breath, or them eating on one side of their mouth.

But honestly? A lot of the time, there aren’t clear signs at all.

Does It Always Mean Surgery?

Not always, but pretty often. A cracked root won’t heal on its own, and leaving it in can lead to infection and pain. In those cases, pet oral surgery is usually the best way to fix it. At Houndstooth, Dr. Tammy Renteria and Dr. Ginger Grellmann are pros when it comes to this kind of thing. They’ll take a look and let you know what’s going on—no guesswork.

How Do You Even Know It’s Happening?

That’s the tricky part. You probably won’t unless a vet checks. A lot of people look up pet dental near you when their dog or cat seems “off,” but the problem might be under the surface. That’s why dental exams matter—even if everything looks okay on the outside.

Local Help in Longview

Houndstooth isn’t your average vet clinic. They focus only on dental and oral surgery for pets, which means they deal with this stuff every single day. If you need someone who knows what they’re doing, this is the place to go in Longview.

Not Sure? Call and Ask.

If you think your pet might be dealing with something tooth-related—or if it’s just been a while since they’ve had their mouth checked—give Houndstooth Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Surgery a call at (360) 232-8863. Whether it’s something small or they need pet oral surgery, they’ll help you figure it out.