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Shop 2 (Lot 6) / 380 Cavendish Rd, Coorparoo QLD 4151
Dog
Molly
Molly, a 9-year-old female Staffy, presented to the clinic with a firm, painful swelling on the right side of her face, just below her left eye. Her owner reported no recent trauma but gave Molly hard bones to chew on to maintain good dental hygiene.
Oral examination revealed a fractured left upper carnassial tooth. Ironically, the fracture had been caused by chewing on a hard bone. Given the severity of the condition, Molly was started on pain relief and antibiotics and scheduled for a COHAT (Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment) under general anaesthesia.
Diagnostic assessment and surgery
Dental X-rays confirmed a painful tooth root abscess at the fractured tooth’s root. The infection had developed due to bacteria tracking up the root canal following the fracture. The only viable treatment was surgical extraction to prevent further pain and infection spread.
The affected tooth was carefully extracted to remove all infected tissue. The socket was thoroughly flushed to eliminate residual bacteria and debris. The gum was sutured closed to promote healing and prevent post-operative complications.
Molly's Recovery
Molly recovered exceptionally well from the procedure. Within hours, she was alert and comfortable. She was discharged with post-operative pain relief and strict instructions to avoid hard bones in the future.
Her owner was advised to switch to safe dental chews and regular veterinary dental cleanings as an alternative means of maintaining oral health. Within days, the swelling had entirely resolved, and Molly was back to her playful, energetic self.