Jaw Fractures
Road Traffic Accidents or similar traumas seem to account for the majority of jaw fractures. However a significant number occur in cats falling from a height (such as upstairs windows). Whilst the repair of any facial fracture is important - it is vital to stabilise the whole patient and to check for any internal injuries. Once these are taken off, attention can be focused on the jaw fractures. The key to repair is not to cause further damage and to try and to allow for normal function and jaw closure.
The image below shows a fractured hard palate (or roof of the mouth) in a cat. Left untreated the jaws would be malaligned and normal closure would not be possible. More importantly food and water would pass from the mouth up into the nose - resulting in chronic inflammation and problems.
The next image shows the final successful result of the repair, when the device was removed 1 month later.
Plates, pins and screws to the jaw bones can cause a great deal of damage to tooth roots. This is why cases are often referred to a veterinary dentist. Most of the time orthodontic materials and expertise can be used to create splints in the repair of jaw fractures.
It is important to avoid doing more harm
by damaging tooth roots etc when fixing jaws
Did You Know?
Calculus
The rough surface provides increased surface area which encourages further plaque accumulation - in turn this produces more calculus.
