Does Your Puppy Have a Painful Bite?
Puppies bring so much joy, but if their teeth and jaws don’t line up properly, every chew can hurt. This condition, known as malocclusion, can turn teething from a natural stage into a painful struggle. Left untreated, it may affect your pup’s comfort, growth, and even long-term health.
Mickey’s
Story
What Is a Malocclusion?
Malocclusion means your puppy’s teeth or jaws don’t align correctly, making biting and chewing painful. It’s more common than many pet parents realise, and without early treatment, it can lead to serious dental problems.
- Overshot jaw – upper jaw longer than the lower
- Undershot jaw – lower jaw longer than the upper
- Asymmetry (wry bite) – uneven jaw growth
- Base narrow canines – lower canine teeth press into the palate
- Misaligned individual teeth – even with otherwise normal jaws
The signs of a painful bite aren’t always obvious. Some puppies keep chewing through the discomfort, while others quietly adapt by avoiding certain foods or toys.
Watch for these signs:
- Preferring soft food over crunchy treats
- Chewing excessively on toys or holding objects in the mouth
- Drooling, dropping food, or avoiding eating
- Acting sensitive when touched around the face or mouth
- No visible signs at all — making routine checks essential
A malocclusion isn’t just uncomfortable—it can cause permanent damage. Teeth pressing into gums or the roof of the mouth can create ulcers, infections, or even holes into the nasal cavity.
Watch for these signs:
- Preferring soft food over crunchy treats
- Chewing excessively on toys or holding objects in the mouth
- Drooling, dropping food, or avoiding eating
- Acting sensitive when touched around the face or mouth
- No visible signs at all — making routine checks essential
How We Can Help
Treatment options include:
- Preferring soft food over crunchy treats
- Chewing excessively on toys or holding objects in the mouth
- Drooling, dropping food, or avoiding eating
- Acting sensitive when touched around the face or mouth
- No visible signs at all — making routine checks essential
Book Your Puppy’s Dental
Check Today
A quick check today could spare your puppy months of discomfort and prevent serious problems later.