Broken tooth

Question
QUESTION: Hi Helen,  I found my 1 yr old pbp broken tooth on my floor tonight. He is sleeping now, good sign, but I would think it would hurt sooner or later. The tooth is about an inch long, so I think it's close to the gums or root (the breakage). Looks like the bottom front. What would you do? Remove the rest of the tooth so it doesn't abscess? (by a vet of coarse) Is there anything I can look for to know if he is in pain?
Thanks Helen.

ANSWER: PIgs have three sets of teeth. They are born with the first set, called needle teeth. The second set is the baby teeth. The third, permanent set begins to erupt at 12 months, by age 2 all baby teeth should be gone and all permanent teeth in.

Given your pigs age, it's very possible this is just a baby tooth and it may have fallen out on it's own. Or it may have broken off because it's ready to fall out.

Sometimes it can be hard to tell if piggy is in pain. He might rub his face against things, have trouble chewing, or turn his head while he chews. He might suddenly start rejecting certain foods. Watch for nasty mouth odors or swelling around the mouth.

I am not a vet and can not make a medical diagnosis over the inernet. In my opinion, if he acts normal, and there's no swelling or odor, I would assume it's a baby tooth and not worry.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you so much, Helen! I noticed today while he eats he turns his head so the broken tooth side is up, food is chewed on lowered side. Can I give him baby asprin? What is the best pain med? What would I do without you? My vet is sending us to the U of MN. Thanks!!

Answer
Because your pig is going to see the vet I would not give any medicine. Aspirin can affect blood clotting, and your pig might need minor surgery.

You can give baby aspirin to piggies. The usual dose is 325 mg of baby aspirin per 75 lb of pig. Weigh or measure your pig ( http://www.pigs4ever.com/PotBelliedPigInfo/size_weight.htm scroll down for the weight by measurement formula) to be sure of the correct dose.

Rimadyl is used most often for pain in pigs. Your vet can tell you what's best to use in this situation.