Veterinary Dental Services

Pet Jaw Fracture Repair

Maxillomandibular fixation, or MMF. This is the equivalent of having one’s jaw “wired shut”. The upper and lower teeth are fused together, which holds the jawbones in their proper places and allows them to heal with good alignment. There is usually a small space left between the upper and lower teeth. A feeding tube is placed while the MMF is present but many patients will learn to lap up food with their tongues. This is a common method of repair in cats. The MMF is usually left in place for 6-8 weeks.

Pet Jaw Fracture Repair

Our veterinary team at Aggie Animal Dental Center specializes in treating jaw fractures, a common injury in both dogs and cats. These fractures can occur due to trauma, such as being hit by a car, falls, or bite injuries. Repairing a fractured jaw requires precision to ensure proper healing and restore your pet’s ability to eat and function normally. Our methods prioritize effective alignment and stabilization, tailored to your pet’s specific condition.

Why Prompt Treatment Is Essential

Addressing jaw fractures promptly is crucial to minimize pain and prevent complications like misalignment or infection. Timely repair ensures proper healing and helps restore your pet’s ability to eat and move their jaw comfortably. At Aggie Animal Dental Center, we focus on personalized treatment plans tailored to your pet’s condition, providing the care they need for recovery. Prompt care also reduces the risk of long-term jaw dysfunction. Our compassionate approach ensures your pet feels supported throughout the healing process.

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Techniques for Pet Jaw Fracture Repair

Maxillomandibular Fixation (MMF): Maxillomandibular fixation involves fusing the upper and lower teeth together to stabilize the jawbone. This approach, often referred to as having the jaw “wired shut,” ensures that the bones heal in proper alignment. A small space is typically left between the teeth, allowing the tongue to lap up food or water. For added nutrition, a feeding tube may be placed during the healing period. MMF is frequently used for cats and remains in place for about 6–8 weeks.
Intraoral Composite Splint: For jaw fractures surrounded by healthy teeth, an intraoral composite splint can provide excellent stabilization. This method involves realigning the teeth and securing them with wire and a composite material. The splint holds the jawbone in its proper position, allowing for effective healing over time.
Interfragmentary Wiring: Interfragmentary wiring is a surgical technique used to align and secure two bone fragments. This option is suitable for specific types of fractures and provides reliable stabilization.
Plates and Screws: In more complex cases, a titanium plate and screws may be surgically placed to stabilize the fracture. This method is often recommended for fractures requiring additional support and precise alignment.

Recovery and Post-Treatment Care

Proper aftercare is essential for successful healing. Pets recovering from jaw fracture repair typically require a soft diet and may need feeding assistance. Regular follow-up appointments ensure that the fracture is healing correctly, and any necessary adjustments are made promptly. Our team is dedicated to supporting you and your pet through every stage of recovery.

Our skilled veterinary team in combines expertise with compassion to provide advanced care for your pet. From diagnosis to post-operative management, we focus on your pet’s comfort and well-being throughout the entire process. Contact us today to learn more about pet jaw fracture repair, or to schedule an appointment.