Overgrown Incisors

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The incisor (front, gnawing) teeth of all rodents and rabbits

grow continuously for the life of the individual.  The continual

wear between the uppers and lowers usually prevents overgrowth of

the teeth.  Hereditary abnormalities of the jaw bones and/or

teeth, abscessation of the incisor teeth, or injury to the jaw

may result in malocclusion (improper meeting of the upper and

lower incisors).  Malocclusion, in turn, results in overgrowth

of one or more of the incisors, with subsequent injury to the

mouth.  Mice and rats with this problem must have their overgrown

incisors trimmed periodically by an experienced veterinarian or

veterinary technician.