Print

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. A surgical procedure known as coronal reduction, in which the cheek teeth are trimmed down, is one option. In some cases, extraction may be necessary.

In addition, a variety of medications including antibiotics and painkillers may be prescribed.

Living and Management

The rabbit should be re-evaluated and have its teeth trimmed every four to eight weeks, as needed. These oral evaluations should include the entire oral cavity, as well as the skull. In some cases, skull X-rays may be recommended three to six months after initial treatment in order to check for progress.

Prevention

To help prevent acquired dental disease -- malocclusion and elongation of cheek teeth -- limit the intake of pellets, soft fruits or vegetables from the rabbit's diet. Instead, provide adequate tough fibrous foods such as hay and grasses to encourage normal wear of teeth.

Unfortunately, prevention is not possible for rabbits that have already shown symptoms of acquired dental disease. However, progression may be slowed down with periodic coronal reduction and appropriate diet.

It is also important to not breed rabbits with congenital malocclusion.