What should be done if a rat has crooked teeth? - briefly
A rat with misaligned incisors must be examined by a veterinarian who can safely trim the teeth under anesthesia if overgrowth is present. After treatment, offer continuous chew objects and a high‑fiber diet to maintain proper tooth wear.
What should be done if a rat has crooked teeth? - in detail
A rat with misaligned incisors cannot grind food properly, which may lead to weight loss, oral pain, and infection. Immediate action begins with a thorough visual inspection. Look for overgrown, sharp, or uneven teeth, drooling, reluctance to eat, and any swelling around the mouth.
If any of these signs are present, schedule a veterinary appointment without delay. A qualified exotic‑animal veterinarian will perform a full oral examination, often using a small otoscope or a dental probe. The professional may take radiographs to assess root length and detect hidden lesions.
During the visit, the veterinarian will:
- Trim the overgrown incisors with a rotary dental burr or high‑speed handpiece, shaping them to a flat, even edge that allows proper occlusion.
- Smooth any sharp points on the molars to prevent tissue damage.
- Apply a biocompatible dental cement if a tooth is fractured or missing, to protect the pulp.
- Prescribe analgesics or antibiotics if infection or inflammation is detected.
Post‑procedure care includes:
- Dietary adjustments – Offer hard, fibrous foods such as raw carrots, apple cores, or specially formulated chew blocks. These stimulate natural tooth wear and help maintain alignment.
- Environmental enrichment – Provide wooden toys, tunnels, and chewable items made of untreated pine or apple wood. Constant gnawing prevents recurrence of overgrowth.
- Regular monitoring – Examine the rat’s mouth weekly for the first month. Look for signs of re‑overgrowth, uneven wear, or relapse of pain.
- Weight tracking – Weigh the animal daily for the first week, then weekly, to ensure adequate nutrition.
If the rat shows improvement—regular eating, no drooling, stable weight—continue the enrichment regimen and schedule a routine dental check‑up every three to six months. Should symptoms persist or reappear, repeat the veterinary assessment promptly; chronic malocclusion may indicate underlying systemic issues that require further diagnostics.