Slight mouth gape = Ca deficiency?

[DragonsForBreakfast]

I read somewhere that a slight mouth gape while not overheated can be a sign of calcium deficiency but now I can't find that information. Am I right, is it a sign of another problem, or am I totally out to lunch?

Thanks!
Clifford & owner

 

[diamc]

Perhaps you're talking about the mouth deformity (overbite) that can be exhibited when a beardie has metabolic bone disease?

 

[Taterbug]

MDB can cause deformed bones, as mentioned. Usually it's an overbite but the bones can warp in other ways too. In such case the jaw bones might feel soft or rubbery and the mouth not able to close smoothly.

Gaping can also be from open mouth breathing - and a symptom of URI.

Does your dragon have a gape?

 

[DragonsForBreakfast]

He has a slight underbite (2mm) and a slight gape (2-3mm).
I replaced his UVB light 3 months ago although I have been slacking a little on calcium dusting the past 2 months - 1-2 time a week instead of 3-4. Is that enough to cause a problem?
I just checked and I can't feel any lumps, bumps, or deformations besides that little underbite, but it is new.

xoxo

 

[MissSmartAlixxx]

Mine is doing same thing! Noticed it the other day...I was putting calcium on his greens instead of crickets...going back to dusting crickets...other than the gap mine seems perfectly fine...going to keep watch on this thread in case some one has more info...and if I find anything I will post here..

 

[Drache613]

Hello,

Not getting enough calcium can definitely affect their bones over time.
Which UVB are you using now & is it a tube or a compact/coil light?
Is he eating well also?
How old is Clifford?
If he is younger than one year calcium is needed 4-5 times per week.

Tracie