Brachygnathia
Also known as: Mandibular brachygnathia · Overbite · Overshot jaw · Parrot mouth · Brachygnathia inferior · …
Overview
What it is
Brachygnathia is a skeletal condition where the lower jaw is abnormally short compared to the upper jaw, commonly referred to as an overbite. This structural misalignment of the skull bones prevents the upper and lower teeth from meeting properly. Over time, this mismatch can affect how the dog chews and how the teeth wear down.
How it presents
Owners will typically notice this misalignment in young puppies as their teeth develop, with the upper jaw visibly protruding past the lower jaw. In severe cases, the lower teeth can press into the roof of the mouth, causing pain, gum irritation, or difficulty eating.
Treatment
Mild cases often require no treatment, while severe misalignments are addressed with one-time dental procedures like tooth extractions or shortening during the first year of life. These corrective treatments typically cost between 200 and 2500 EUR.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Brachygnathia?
Brachygnathia is a skeletal condition where the lower jaw is abnormally short compared to the upper jaw, commonly referred to as an overbite. This structural misalignment of the skull bones prevents the upper and lower teeth from meeting properly. Over time, this mismatch can affect how the dog chews and how the teeth wear down.
How is Brachygnathia tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.