Guinea Pig Health - Malocclusion

Guinea Pig Health - Malocclusion
By Amanda Toop

Malocclusion is a serious condition that occurs when teeth become so overgrown that the guinea pig cannot eat. As guinea pigs teeth will continuously grow over the course of a lifetime, if not worn down this condition will occur. There are two types of malocclusion t look out for - molar and incisor. Malocclusion cannot be conclusively diagnosed without an exam done by a veterinarian. In some cases if the oral cavity must be examined this will require sedation and special tools.

Molar Malocclusion

If the molar teeth become too long the guinea pigs moth will not be able to close. This will force the jaw forward resulting in a misalignment of the molars and incisors. When this happens the incisors will begin to lose shape and the molars will overgrow - ultimately trapping the tongue and preventing normal swallowing from happening. In some cases this angled growth can lead to the tooth of the teeth growing into the sinus or eye. Tooth spikes, which are bone spurs, can also form on the side of the molars resting against the tongue. The sharpness of the tooth spike can actually cut the tongue.

Prevention

Make every effort to feed one's guinea pig grass, greens, timothy hay, and other abrasive foods. In some cases malocclusion has been seen to be genetic and it can develop at a young age despite one's best efforts.

What are symptoms of Malocclusion?

Look for signs of weight loss despite the fact that your pet is actively interested in food. Look for changes in food preferences as well. Is your guinea pig suddenly eating primarily soft foods? Do you hear a grating noise as your guinea pig chews? What about the speed of chewing? Does it seem abnormally slow? Is food falling out of your pet's mouth? Do you see signs of diarrhea and extreme weight loss?

Treatment

If malocclusion is allowed to develop for a very long time it can be impossible to treat. Treatment can require sedation, removal of overgrowth and tooth spikes, as well as x-rays to see the extent to which roots may have overgrown. If the jaw has been permanently damaged - meaning it is stuck in this position despite tooth length correction, euthanasia is frequently carried out as the animal will not be able to feed itself and will slowly waste away.

Amanda is a lifelong guinea pig lover. For more great guinea pig information, visit http://www.guineapigresource.com/guinea-pig-health/

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