Enamel Hypoplasia

Enamel hypoplasia refers to incomplete development of the enamel of the tooth.  The enamel of permanent teeth is formed during your pet's first 5 months of life.  Diseases such as distemper or other disorders that are accompanied by high fever could affect normal tooth enamel production.  In addition to high fever, other damaging disorders, such as serious worm infestation or poor diet, may have the same effect.  A tooth with enamel hypoplasia appears pitted, grooved, and discolored.  It is weaker than a normal tooth and is more easily broken or more readily worn down from chewing hard objects.

Important Points in Treatment

 
1. Refrain from giving your pet bones or other hard substances to chew. Soft moist or canned diets are better than dry foods.

2. Special cosmetic dentistry can improve the appearance of your pet's teeth.

3. You should regularly brush your pet's teeth with toothpaste for pets to help prevent further damage and cavity development.  Human toothpaste or powders should not be used because your pet would normally swallow them instead of spitting them out as people do.  This could result in stomach upset and vomiting.

Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:

• You are unable to brush your pet's teeth.
• Tartar development occurs with or without brushing.

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