Both you and your pet cat are vulnerable to many of the same health concerns, including dental difficulties. Though you may struggle with cavities in your teeth due to decay, cats have distinct tooth deterioration. This condition, called feline tooth resorption, results in severe, cavity-like lesions that compromise the teeth’s strength. Feline tooth resorption is typical as cats age, affecting up to 60% of the adult cat population and 75% of senior cats. As a concerned pet owner, you’ll want to educate yourself about this tooth issue.
Types and Stages of Tooth Resorption
Tooth resorption is classified into two different types: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 tooth resorption preserves most tooth structures but leaves dental flaws inside the crown or root. The only treatment option for teeth suffering from Type 1 resorption is surgical extraction. On the other hand, type 2 resorption happens when the tooth’s root is removed and replaced by bone.
Coronectomy, also known as crown amputation, is a common treatment for Type 2 tooth resorption. When tooth resorption is detected in a feline, it is necessary to do regular oral cleanings under anesthesia every 6-9 months. If you are searching for an animal hospital Seattle, you can talk to your vet and learn more about veterinary services for feline tooth resorption.
Causes
Although recorded cases have increased in recent decades, nobody knows why feline tooth resorption occurs. Genetic factors may influence which felines have this condition. Periodontal disease, characterized by persistent swelling of the dental ligaments and gum tissue, might have a role in Type 1 resorption. The probable reason or contributor to feline tooth resorption is nutritional problems such as high acid levels or dietary deficiencies.
Signs
An early stage of feline tooth resorption may only exhibit gingivitis, with blood in your feline’s water or food dish. As the complication advances, you may see cavities or fractures in the affected teeth. Cats naturally mask discomfort to avoid possible risks. However, you can identify whether your cat is in pain from tooth resorption or other dental problems.
Watch out for drooling, mood swings, and avoidance of favorite individuals or things. If your cat is exhibiting signs of tooth resorption, you can check out facilities like Cat Clinic of Seattle for a complete dental evaluation and treatment plan.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your veterinarian can identify feline tooth resorption by giving your cat general anesthesia and acquiring dental X-rays. A crown and root examination may help establish the condition’s development while ruling out other potential dental issues. The extent of your cat’s tooth resorption will determine the medical treatment. If your cat’s teeth are slightly damaged, your veterinarian may recommend filling the holes. However, resorptive lesions may occur even after filling.
Therefore this approach should only be used as a temporary fix. Resorption-affected teeth will eventually need to be extracted. In Type 1 tooth resorption, your veterinarian will normally extract the whole tooth, reducing pain and gum inflammation. When a feline has Type 2 tooth resorption, the doctor removes just the crown, leaving the roots intact. You can click here to learn why getting a wellness plan will help minimize tooth resorption in cats.
Final Thoughts
Because the reasons for feline tooth resorption are unknown, veterinarians can not advise prevention treatments. The possible connection between this illness and periodontal disease should encourage you to clean your cat’s teeth at home and professionally. Dietary adjustments may reduce your cat’s risk of tooth resorption. Ask your veterinarian whether your cat needs a unique diet plan or nutritional supplement.
