I'm kind of freaking out here and could really use some advice. My 5-month-old golden retriever, Max, was having his usual rambunctious play session with his favorite chew toy earlier today when I noticed something that made my heart drop. One of his little teeth got snagged on the toy, and now it's just barely hanging on, like it's dangling by a thread! Max doesn't seem to be in pain and is still his bouncy self, but I'm worried about doing the wrong thing. Should I try to remove it myself or just leave it be? I've read that puppies lose their teeth naturally, but this feels different. I've never had a puppy before, so any guidance on how to handle this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Hello there!
It's not uncommon for puppies to encounter a bit of dental drama while playing. When a tooth is snagged and left dangling, it's often a baby tooth that’s on its way out. In many cases, this is completely normal as they naturally lose their baby teeth between 3 to 6 months old.
Since the tooth is hanging by a thread and causing discomfort, you can try to gently wiggle it with clean fingers or let your puppy continue playing with a chew toy under supervision—this might help the tooth come out on its own. Avoid forcing anything, as this might cause pain or bleeding.
Keep an eye on how your puppy is acting. Signs that could suggest a more serious issue include refusal to eat, noticeable pain, or persistent bleeding. If you notice any swelling, an unpleasant odor, or if the tooth doesn’t come out after a few days, it might be a good idea to seek further advice.
Feel free to book a video consult with Dial A Vet. That way, we can take a closer look and ensure your little one’s mouth stays healthy and happy! Take care!
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