Malocclusion in Dogs & Cats in Beaverton, OR
A malocclusion is an abnormal bite in which teeth don’t align properly. While some bite differences are normal for certain breeds, many cause teeth to strike other teeth or the gums and palate, leading to pain, trauma, and infection. At Premier Pet Dentistry, we evaluate every bite and offer orthodontic and surgical solutions to keep your pet comfortable.
Types of Malocclusion
Malocclusions may be skeletal, caused by differences in jaw length, or dental, caused by individual teeth growing in the wrong position. Common examples include:
- Base-narrow canines: Lower canine teeth that point inward and puncture the roof of the mouth.
- Class II malocclusion (overbite): A lower jaw that is shorter than the upper jaw.
- Class III malocclusion (underbite): A lower jaw that is longer than the upper jaw.
- Rostral crossbite and lance canines: Front teeth or upper canines that are tipped out of position.
- Crowding and rotated teeth: Common in small and short-nosed breeds.
Why Bite Problems Matter
Teeth that hit other teeth or soft tissue can cause tooth fractures, tooth inflammation, painful wounds in the palate, periodontal disease, and even tooth loss. In young pets, retained baby teeth are a frequent cause of adult teeth erupting in the wrong position, so early evaluation is important.
Treatment for Malocclusion
During your pet’s oral exam, Dr. Martin performs a bite (occlusal) evaluation and recommends diagnostics and treatment based on your pet’s age and the type of malocclusion. Options through our pet orthodontics service include interceptive extraction of baby teeth to allow jaw growth, incline plane appliances, custom orthodontic appliances or braces to move teeth into a comfortable position, and crown extensions. When moving a tooth isn’t practical, crown reduction with vital pulp therapy through our endodontics service or extraction through our oral surgery service can eliminate the traumatic contact. Explore our dental services or view all conditions treated.
Malocclusion FAQs
At what age should my puppy’s bite be checked?
Ideally, bites should be evaluated during puppy visits and again as adult teeth erupt between about 4 and 7 months of age, when interceptive treatment is most effective.
Do pets really get braces?
Yes. Orthodontic appliances can move teeth into a comfortable, functional position. Our goal is always comfort and function rather than cosmetic appearance.
Is an underbite normal for my breed?
Some breeds are expected to have certain bite patterns. The key question is whether teeth are causing trauma or pain, which a bite evaluation will determine.
What happens if a malocclusion isn’t treated?
Teeth that strike other teeth or soft tissue can lead to painful wounds, fractures, periodontal disease, and tooth loss.
How long does orthodontic treatment take in pets?
Many appliances are worn for a few weeks to a few months, with periodic rechecks under brief anesthesia to monitor progress.
Can malocclusion be fixed without orthodontics?
Sometimes. Interceptive extractions, crown reduction with vital pulp therapy, or extraction of the offending tooth can eliminate the problem when orthodontics isn’t the best fit.
Schedule a Bite Evaluation for Your Pet
Call 503-PREMIER ((503) 773-6437) or request an appointment with Premier Pet Dentistry in Beaverton, OR . We proudly care for dogs and cats from Beaverton and across the Portland metro.