Dental Malocclusion

Dental malocclusion in small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas) occurs when continuously growing teeth (hypsodont dentition) fail to wear properly, leading to overgrowth, abnormal angulation, and oral pain. Unlike dogs and cats, these species' teeth grow continuously throughout life and require constant wear through fibrous diet to maintain proper length and alignment.

Symptoms & Signs

• Decreased appetite or selective eating
• Drooling (slobbers)
• Weight loss
• Facial swelling or abscess
• Eye discharge (upper tooth roots near tear duct)
• Inability to close mouth
• Grinding teeth (bruxism)
• Matted fur on chin

Causes & Risk Factors

Genetic predisposition (particularly in dwarf rabbit breeds), insufficient dietary fiber (hay), trauma to teeth or jaw, metabolic bone disease affecting tooth development, and congenital jaw length discrepancies. Lack of abrasive food prevents normal tooth wear.

Diagnosis

Oral examination (may require sedation for full assessment). Skull radiographs or CT to evaluate tooth roots, jaw bone, and periapical disease. Assessment of occlusal surfaces for spurs, hooks, and abnormal wear patterns.

Treatment

Regular dental filing/burring under sedation to correct overgrowth. Extraction of severely affected teeth. Abscess management (debridement, antibiotics, pain management). Dietary modification to increase hay consumption.

Prevention

Diet consisting of 80%+ grass hay for rabbits and guinea pigs. Providing appropriate chewing materials. Avoiding selective feeding of pellets over hay. Regular dental checks. Breeding away from severe malocclusion.

Prognosis

Mild cases managed well with regular dental care and diet correction. Severe cases with root involvement or abscesses carry a more guarded prognosis. Lifelong management typically required once malocclusion develops.

Affected Breeds (12)

Related Conditions

• GI Stasis
• Facial Abscess
• Metabolic Bone Disease