02/18/2025
We continue our diagnostics talk on teeth with Ora-Nasal Fistulas
These things are GROSSSSSSS but important to talk about!
An abnormal opening between the oral and nasal cavities, this is often caused by bad teeth along the upper jaw due to periodontal disease, trauma, birth defects, or oral tumors. This condition allows food, water, and other oral contents to pass into the nasal passages, leading to discomfort and various health issues. While it can occur in any breed, certain dogs, are more predisposed to this condition.
First symptoms can include inflammation, irritation, runny nose, sneezing, or nasal infection... sometimes it can lead to your pet developing pneumonia when left unaddressed.
These are addressed during an anesthetized dental cleaning. If there isn't an infection present, the doctor will flush and suture it shut to heal closed. However, if there is an infection present at the time, the hole will be left open while an antibiotic regiment is prescribed, and the hole will naturally close on its own.
