Common Pet Dental Problems
> Discolored teeth
Pet cavities
Missing teeth and/or
impacted teeth
Retained baby teeth
Tooth resorption
Worn teeth
Oral infection
Oral tumors
Extra teeth
Red and inflamed gums
Crowding
Feline resorption lesions
Exposed roots
Broken jaw
Enamel hypoplasia or hypocalcification
Base narrow canines
Gum overgrowth
Gum recession
Sneaky cancer
Early tooth hemorrhage
Dead non vital canine teeth TRAUMA
Dead teeth discolored and non vital
Early tooth hemorrhage
Discolored teeth (e.g., non-vital teeth) likely represent irreversible pulpitis in an otherwise intact tooth. Dental radiographs are needed to confirm this diagnosis. Pulpitis eventually leads to pulp necrosis (death) and if left untreated will cause inflammation of the tissues surrounding the apex, resulting in destruction of the periapical bone. Teeth with necrotic (dead) pulp should be treated by root canal therapy or by surgically removing the tooth. Dr. Jon is available to consult with veterinarians and pet parents alike concerning treatment options specific to your patient or pet.
How to identify disease:
Pets are very different from people in regards to oral pain and infection. Oral pain in people can be debilitating. The vast majority of pets do not let their owners know that they have dental infection, pain, or other diseases of the oral cavity. Many pets will continue to eat and happily interact with you despite oral pain and infection. This is a wild defensive mechanism deeply rooted in their behavior. In short, many pets endure the pain in silence. Pets should have regular oral examinations and if any gum redness (inflammation), abnormal bumps, bad breath, or loose or discolored teeth are present, the cause should be identified and treated. Studies show that up to 85% of pet dogs and cats have dental disease that needs care.