Routine dental cleanings serve a dual purpose, preserving a dog's dazzling smile and offering veterinarians the opportunity to perform a comprehensive examination of the mouth. This examination helps spot unusual pigmentation and subtle tumors that may indicate the presence of oral cancer, including oral melanoma. Detecting melanoma in its earliest stages offers the best chances for your pet's survival.
Tooth resorptions, technically known as feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORL), are dental abnormalities that occur predominantly in cats, with occasional cases seen in dogs. These lesions develop at the base or neck of a tooth, akin to cavities. Unfortunately, they are often challenging to detect, as gum tissue tends to grow over them in an attempt to shield the area.
The oral health of dogs and cats can be a significant source of health concerns. Shockingly, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats exhibit signs of oral and dental problems by the age of three. For cats, dental issues are among the top 10 reasons they visit veterinarians annually.