Guinea pig born without teeth

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Teeth chattering is a sign of dental problems in guinea pigs.

  • Facial swelling: If your guinea pig has swelling around its face or jaw, it could be a sign of dental problems.
  • Hay is an essential part of your guinea pig’s diet because it helps wear down the teeth.

    Their teeth are classified as “aradicular hypsodont,” which is a fancy way of saying they have high crowns and open roots that grow continuously throughout their lives, says Walter Merker, DVM, exotic animal veterinarian at Orange Grove Animal Hospital in Tucson, Arizona.

    This, along with the fact that they don’t have canine teeth—the sharper, pointed ones that help you bite into food—makes a guinea pig mouth pretty unique.

    Right behind the top incisor teeth are two small peg-like teeth called auxiliary incisors or "peg teeth". -- from the House Rabbit Society website."The second set may erupt later in life."

    • See: Thread concerning peg teeth in a guinea pig.

      Dental x-rays are an extremely valuable tool to aid diagnosing conditions that may not be evident from a visual inspection.

      The Chin Sling can provide support for a weak jaw, encourages normal wear of the teeth, and helps build muscle.

      More About Teeth:

    • And since guinea pigs’ incisors can grow around 2 millimeters a week, they need a constant supply of hay to wear down their teeth and keep them growing at a normal, healthy length.

    Can Guinea Pig Teeth Have Problems?

    Some of the problems that require treatment are:

    Who can fix my pet's teeth if there's a problem?

    An experienced veterinarian or animal dentist can help deal with problems that arise. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help prevent dental problems and ensure that any issues are addressed promptly.

    Vitamin Deficiencies

    Guinea pigs need vitamin C for healthy teeth and gums.

    A nutritious diet and adequate vitamin C will help them grow strong. They use their tongue to keep their teeth clean and free of debris. In addition, a diet that is low in calcium and phosphorus can also contribute to teeth loss.

    To ensure that your guinea pig is getting the right nutrition, make sure to provide them with a diet that is high in hay, fresh vegetables, and fruits.

    To ensure they get the nutrition they need, you’ll need to modify their diet by providing softer foods that are easier to eat. They may still be interested in eating, but it just hurts too much to do it properly.

  • They often drool, with the saliva matting their fur around the mouth and down their front – aa condition known as the ‘slobbers’ (see photo below).
  • They will stop grooming themselves, so their hair looks unkempt.
  • Because they are not eating well, they often develop diarrhoea, or stop passing faecal pellets altogether.
  • They will lose weight, with their spine, pelvic bones, and ribs becoming prominent.
  • If abscesses are forming, there may be obvious swellings on the face and lower jaw that are painful when you touch them.

    • The guinea pig above has wet fur on the chin (‘slobbers’), indicating dental problems.

    What will my guinea pig vet be able to do for my guinea pig?

    Dental disease can be difficult to diagnose without a thorough examination.

    (Make sure they don’t become too hot!)

  • Weigh your guinea pigs every week and give them a quick check up. You can offer your guinea pig mashed vegetables, soft fruits, and soaked pellets. For mild cases, the treatment may be as simple as increasing the amount of hay or grass in your guinea pig’s diet.

    For more serious cases, a dental procedure under general anaesthesia may be needed.

    Sadly, in many cases, euthanasia may be the most appropriate treatment for your little pet.

    • Prevention

    The good news is that while dental disease is often difficult to treat it is generally easy to prevent.

    1. Ensure your guinea pigs aregetting plenty of hay and grass in their diet.

      guinea pig born without teeth

      The mandibular (bottom jaw) cheek teeth are often the worst affected, and they can get so bad that they can grow over and totally ‘entrap’ the tongue. You may need to modify their diet to softer foods or provide them with mashed or pureed food to help them eat.

      Pain and Discomfort

      When guinea pigs lose their teeth, they may experience pain and discomfort.

      Dental problems can be painful and can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.

      Preventive Measures for Teeth Loss

      Losing teeth can be a serious problem for guinea pigs, as their teeth never stop growing and are essential for their survival. This will help keep their teeth clean and healthy.

    2. Avoid giving your guinea pig sugary treats, as these can lead to cavities.
    3. Have your veterinarian check your guinea pig’s teeth regularly to ensure they are healthy and not overgrown.
    4. If your guinea pig has lost a tooth, you may need to assist them with feeding until the tooth regrows.

      5. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your guinea pig’s teeth stay healthy and strong.

      Impact of Teeth Loss on Guinea Pigs

      Losing teeth can be a serious issue for guinea pigs as their teeth never stop growing.