Dental malocclusion of the loris
Dental malocclusion of the loris is an abnormality of tooth alignment. The upper and lower teeth no longer fit together correctly.\n\nThis misalignment prevents normal wear of the teeth during chewing. Parts of the mouth may then become sor...
What is it?
Dental malocclusion of the loris is an abnormality of tooth alignment. The upper and lower teeth no longer fit together correctly.\n\nThis misalignment prevents normal wear of the teeth during chewing. Parts of the mouth may then become sore or infected.\n\nLorises are nocturnal primates with a distinctive jaw, with a specialized dental comb at the front of the lower jaw. Any abnormality affecting this structure has a significant impact on their ability to eat and groom themselves.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
Related signs — each one links to its page:
The animal may eat more slowly or avoid certain hard foods.\n\nExcessive salivation or difficulty chewing are often observed.\n\nBad breath, red or bleeding gums, or visibly poorly positioned teeth may accompany the picture.\n\nAt an advanced stage, progressive weight loss and a change in behavior (irritability, isolation) appear, linked to chronic pain.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Causes and risk factors
Several origins are possible: a congenital anomaly of the jaw present from birth, unbalanced growth of the facial bones, a fracture or old trauma that is poorly consolidated, or even a premature loss of milk teeth disrupting the establishment of permanent teeth.\n\nAn unsuitable diet in captivity, too soft or too sweet, can also promote a lack of natural wear of the teeth and aggravate an imbalance already present.
A genetic origin or inbreeding in captivity, a young age at the appearance of the first signs, a diet in captivity that is not very diversified or too processed, as well as a history of facial trauma increase the risk.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
The veterinarian carries out a complete clinical examination of the oral cavity, often under light general anesthesia given the small size and stress of the animal.\n\nDental x-rays make it possible to assess the position of the roots, the condition of the surrounding bone and the possible presence of infection or associated cyst.\n\nDietary history and history of trauma are also sought during the consultation.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity and may involve regular dental filing or grinding to correct abnormal wear, care of the oral cavity, antibiotic treatment in the event of secondary infection, and analgesics to manage pain.\n\nAdaptation of the diet towards better tolerated textures is often recommended.\n\nIn the most severe or painful cases, extraction of the tooth(s) concerned may be considered by the veterinarian.
Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed prevention when the origin is congenital.\n\nA varied diet adapted to the species, including textures which promote natural wear of the teeth, helps to limit acquired imbalances.\n\nRegular veterinary monitoring of lorises held in captivity, with routine oral examination, allows any anomalies to be identified early.
Possible complications
Unmanaged malocclusion can lead to dental abscesses, jaw infections, severe weight loss from difficulty eating, and chronic damage to the soft tissues of the mouth from repeated rubbing.
When to see a veterinarian
The animal eats less or avoids hard foods.\nExcessive salivation or bad breath appears.\nBleeding or redness of the gums is visible.\nProgressive weight loss is noted.\nThe animal shows signs of pain or an unusual change in behavior.
Prognosis
The prognosis varies depending on the cause and the precocity of treatment. A mild malocclusion, monitored and corrected regularly, often allows the animal to maintain a good quality of life.\n\nSevere or neglected forms, with infection or significant weight loss, have a more guarded prognosis and require close veterinary monitoring for life.
Frequently asked questions
Is loris dental malocclusion hereditary?
It can have a congenital or genetic origin, but it can also result from trauma or an inappropriate diet. Only a veterinarian can direct to the probable cause after examination.
Can a loris with a malocclusion live normally?
Yes, in many cases, with regular veterinary monitoring and appropriate dental care, the animal can maintain a good quality of life.
Is it necessary to extract the affected teeth?
No, extraction is only considered in severe or painful cases. Other options like regular grinding are often tried first.
Is this disease transmissible to humans?
No, dental malocclusion is not a contagious disease nor transmissible to humans or other animals.
References
WSAVA — World Small Animal Veterinary Association
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 23 September 2026
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