Other Oral Problems

Tooth resorption has been known by many names. These lesions have previously been referred to as feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORLs), neck lesions, cervical lesions, cervical line lesions, feline caries, dental resorptive lesions, external odontoclastic resorptions, cervical root resorptions, feline odontolysis and most likely many more. 

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Regular oral examinations often reveal the presence of swellings or masses in our furry companions’ mouths. Sometimes, pet owners bring their animals to us specifically due to the detection of an oral mass either at home or by another veterinarian. Identifying these masses is not always straightforward – some are benign, requiring minimal intervention, while others demand a more intricate diagnosis and treatment.

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Jaw fractures in pets, resulting from trauma, require specialised care. Veterinary dentistry provides a considered approach to these cases, sparing function and anatomy.

Due to the high vascularity of the oral cavity, most oral fractures will repair no matter which technique is used, providing fixation is reasonable.  Repair and adequate healing of the fracture unfortunately does not guarantee return to function.  Returning the animal to a normal functional occlusion as soon as possible post-operatively should be the objective of any treatment performed.

Dentigerous cysts are fluid filled, expansile, cystic lesions that can form around unerupted teeth. In our experience dentigerous cysts can affect any breed of dog however brachycephalic or short nosed breeds (Pugs, Frenchies, Boxer dogs) and micro breeds such as chihuahuas are most often affected.

An oronasal fistula (ONF) is a pathological connection between the oral and nasal cavities, primarily observed in dogs, with rare occurrences in cats. This condition typically arises in dogs suffering from advanced periodontal disease in the upper jaw.

In Veterinary Dentistry, general anaesthesia is a crucial element of ensuring safe and thorough dental procedures for our patients. While general anaesthesia has become significantly safer over the years, there are instances where certain patients present higher risks due to underlying health conditions. For these complex cases, the involvement of specialized Anaesthetists becomes imperative to enhance safety and tailor anaesthetic protocols to individual needs.

Malocclusions or bite abnormalities are not observed as commonly in cats as they are in dogs. 

One of the most common traumatic malocclusions occurs when the maxillary fourth premolar tooth contacts and traumatises the soft tissue adjacent to the mandibular molar tooth. 

Lip entrapment is a condition that we see most frequently in feline patients. Most cases of lip entrapment occur following the extraction of a maxillary canine tooth.  

Cats have relatively tight upper lips compared to our canine patients. The presence of the maxillary canine tooth aids in holding the lip out to a sufficient degree that when the mouth closes the mandibular canine tooth slips inside the upper lip without causing trauma. Loss of the maxillary canine tooth can allow the upper lip to drop inwards. For some cats this results in the lower canine contacting, trapping and traumatising the upper lip.  

Has crown amputation been mentioned to you when discussing extraction of your pet’s teeth? Crown amputation with intentional root retention is a procedure that may be appropriate in select circumstances when performing dental treatment on your pet.