Can Dogs Get Braces? Everything You Need to Know About Doggy Orthodontics

Have you ever looked at your furry friend’s crooked smile and wondered if Fido could benefit from braces just like humans do? Well, you’re not alone in this curiosity! The question “can dogs get braces” is actually more common than you might think. As a pet parent who’s researched this topic extensively, I’m excited to share everything you need to know about canine orthodontics.

Yes, Dogs Can Actually Get Braces!

Surprisingly dogs can indeed wear braces to correct dental issues! Veterinary dentists have been using braces and other orthodontic appliances since the 1980s to treat our four-legged companions with painful or potentially dangerous dental problems. But before you start imagining your pup with a mouthful of metal showing off a shiny smile to the neighborhood dogs it’s important to understand that the purpose is completely different from human orthodontics.

“We’re not doing this for aesthetics” explains Dr. Donnell Hansen a veterinary dentist and oral surgeon at BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Minnesota. “We’re doing this for a healthier and more comfortable bite.”

Why Would a Dog Need Braces?

Unlike humans who often get braces for cosmetic reasons, dogs receive orthodontic treatment solely for health purposes Here are some common dental issues that might require doggy braces

• Linguoversion – This is when teeth are pushed back toward the tongue. In dogs, breeders often call this condition “base narrow.” The lower teeth may rub against the roof of the mouth, causing discomfort or even creating holes that lead to chronic sinus infections.

• Crowded teeth – Just like humans, dogs can have teeth that are too close together or overlapping, which can lead to various dental problems.

• Lance teeth – This occurs when the upper canines point outward rather than downward as they should.

• Overbites and underbites – When the lower jaw is shorter than the upper jaw (or vice versa), it can cause bite misalignments.

• Lingering baby teeth – Sometimes puppy teeth don’t fall out properly, causing crowding as adult teeth come in and increasing infection risk.

• Post-surgical care – Braces may be used after cancer treatment where part of the jaw has been removed, helping to minimize tooth drift.

Dr. Dan Carmichael, a veterinary dentist at Animal Medical Center in New York City, points out that “Our end treatment goals are not to get the mouth perfect, but to get the mouth healthy and functional.”

How to Tell if Your Dog Might Need Braces

Most diagnoses for dog braces occur when the animal is young, typically when permanent teeth come in around 4-6 months of age. Here are some signs that might indicate your dog has dental issues:

• Difficulty eating or dropping food more than usual
• Reluctance to let you touch their head or jaw (possibly indicating pain)
• Noticeable overbite or misaligned teeth
• General signs of mouth discomfort

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. Don’t delay—your furry friend could be experiencing chronic pain that’s affecting their quality of life!

The Dog Braces Process: What to Expect

If your vet suspects your dog might benefit from orthodontic treatment, here’s what the process typically looks like:

1. Initial evaluation – Your regular vet might refer you to a veterinary dentist who specializes in canine orthodontics.

2. Health assessment – The dog must be healthy enough to undergo general anesthesia, which is required for fitting braces.

3. Examination and planning – While under anesthesia, the vet will perform x-rays and cleanings, then determine the appropriate orthodontic approach.

4. Application – Applying the braces takes anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

The good news? Dogs wear braces for a much shorter time than humans do! Treatment typically lasts just a few weeks to a few months.

Types of Orthodontic Solutions for Dogs

Veterinary dentists have several options when it comes to correcting canine dental issues:

• Traditional braces – Similar to human braces but adapted for canine mouths
• PetAlign – A sort of “Invisalign for dogs” that uses a series of aligners that can be switched without additional rounds of anesthesia
• Rubber ball therapy – For minor cases, dog owners can be taught to position a lacrosse ball in their pet’s mouth; the pressure helps move teeth into better positions
• Tooth extraction – Sometimes removing problem teeth is the best solution
• Filing down teeth – Shortening problem teeth can sometimes resolve issues

Caring for a Dog with Braces

If your pup does end up with braces, you’ll need to:

• Brush around the apparatus regularly
• Flush their mouth with prescribed oral antiseptic
• Feed them soft foods during treatment
• Keep chew toys, bones, and other hard objects away from them

The good news is that unlike humans, dogs don’t need retainers after their braces come off! As Dr. Hansen explains, “The dog’s mouth serves as a natural retainer.”

The Cost of Doggy Braces

Now for the question on every pet parent’s mind: what’s the damage to your wallet? Dog braces aren’t cheap, unfortunately. Depending on the condition of the teeth and how many rounds of anesthesia are needed, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000 for the treatment.

Additionally, your dog will need weekly or biweekly checkups throughout the process, which adds to the time commitment.

Is It Worth It?

Many pet owners wonder if the cost and hassle of doggy braces are truly worthwhile. While it might seem excessive to some, remember that dental problems can cause significant pain and health issues for your furry friend.

“I think it almost sounds silly, but surprisingly it’s a very valid treatment option,” says Dr. Carmichael. “It’s a lot quicker and simpler than most folks would imagine, and in most cases the success rate is excellent.”

Real-Life Considerations Before Getting Braces for Your Dog

Before jumping into canine orthodontics, consider these important factors:

Your Dog’s Temperament

Not all dogs are good candidates for braces. Your pet needs to be compliant enough to tolerate repeated examinations and the presence of foreign objects in their mouth. Some dogs simply won’t stand for it!

Your Commitment Level

Are you prepared to provide the necessary care during treatment? This includes regular cleaning, administering medications, attending frequent vet visits, and closely monitoring your dog’s mouth for any issues.

Alternative Options

Braces aren’t always the only solution. As Dr. Carmichael notes, “It’s usually not the only option, but in some cases, it is the best option.” Make sure to discuss all available treatments with your veterinarian.

Success Stories: When Braces Made a Difference

I personally know a collie owner whose dog suffered from severe linguoversion—those pointy canine teeth were literally poking holes in the roof of the poor dog’s mouth! After getting braces, the difference was night and day. The dog went from being in constant discomfort to being playful and happy again.

This is just one example of when orthodontic intervention can dramatically improve a dog’s quality of life. While we might chuckle at the thought of a dog with braces, for some pups, it’s a life-changing medical treatment.

The Bottom Line: Health Over Appearance

The most important thing to remember about canine orthodontics is that it’s never about making your dog look better—it’s about helping them feel better and preventing serious health complications.

If your veterinarian recommends consulting with a veterinary dentist about braces for your dog, take it seriously. Your furry friend can’t tell you directly when they’re in pain, but addressing their dental issues could make a world of difference in their comfort and overall well-being.

While your dog probably won’t be thrilled about wearing braces, the temporary discomfort is worth the long-term health benefits. And just think—after just a few weeks or months, those braces will come off, and your dog will likely reward you with a pain-free wagging tail!

When to Consult a Professional

If you’re concerned about your dog’s dental health, don’t wait to seek help. Contact your regular veterinarian for an initial assessment. They can determine whether your dog might benefit from seeing a veterinary dentist who specializes in orthodontics.

Remember that early intervention is key—addressing dental issues when your dog is young can prevent years of discomfort and more serious health problems down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Braces

Q: Will my dog be in pain with braces?
A: There might be some initial discomfort, but most dogs adjust quickly. Veterinarians can prescribe pain management options if needed.

Q: How will my dog eat with braces?
A: Your dog will need to switch to soft foods during treatment, and chew toys will be off-limits.

Q: Do all veterinarians offer dog braces?
A: No, you’ll need to see a specialist in veterinary dentistry and orthodontics.

Q: Does pet insurance cover dog braces?
A: Some pet insurance policies may cover orthodontic treatment if it’s deemed medically necessary, but coverage varies widely. Check with your provider.

Q: Are some dog breeds more likely to need braces?
A: Yes, certain breeds with long, narrow snouts (like collies) are more prone to dental issues that might require orthodontic intervention.

So there you have it—everything you need to know about canine braces! While it might seem unusual at first, dog braces can be a valuable medical treatment that significantly improves your best friend’s quality of life. Just remember that unlike human braces, the goal isn’t a perfect smile for Instagram—it’s a healthy, comfortable mouth that allows your dog to eat, play, and live pain-free.