From:
Roger Vaughn
Date: 2002-01-30 13:42:00 UTC
Subject: Re: [Ferret-Health-list] Re: ROOT CANAL vs. EXTRACTION
The real problem with broken canines is that eventually, if exposed,
the root *will* get infected. That can cause pain, deterioriation of
the gums and other surrounding teeth, and migration of the infection
into the blood stream. And then you have a real mess. I just had this
done with one of my cats last week - she never complained about the
tooth so I never realized, but it was infected and the infection had
spread, giving her a urinary tract infection as well.
Mike, the darkness of that tooth is a good sign that the tooth is dead
and needs to be addressed. If the root is not too far gone, a root
canal or a filling can be done, but because of the color, I'm guessing
the root has already died. Infection comes next.
It sounds like filling or a crown might be an option for the original
poster, too. Have you asked your vet about this option?
From what I'm reading here, there may be some risk in extracting the
canines. I have no personal experience with it, so I can't comment. I
*can* say that if you don't do something about the tooth, the ferret
will have problems later on. There's no risk about it - it's a
guarantee. Given that, you need to go ahead and do something. I would
think that the root canal would be the better option, but make sure
your vet is experienced with dental surgery in ferrets. If he is not,
find one who is. That's going to give you the best odds for avoiding
complications.
Roger, Digger, Bear, Pepper and Badger (and the cats)