Treatment for Tooth Resorption at Animal Hospital of Sullivan County

Cats are very good at hiding any signs of illness, injury or discomfort, even the pain caused by tooth resorptive tooth lesions. Resorptive lesions can make chewing difficult and painful. If your cat is struggling with this degenerative, progressive oral condition, rest assured that relief is at hand here at Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, where we routinely treat a variety of dental issues for cats and dogs in the Ferndale, Monticello and Liberty area.

A Painful Dental Problem for Cats

The condition currently known as tooth resorption has gone by a number of names over the years, from "feline resorptive lesions" and "cervical line erosions" to "cat cavities". The condition is characterized by the erosion and breakdown of dentin. Dentin is the bony structure that gives teeth their bulk and hardness; it surrounds and protects the sensitive nerve tissue known as the pulp. This material can break down along any part of the tooth, including the root and as it does, the pulp becomes increasingly exposed.

The majority of cats aged 5 and older will experience resorption in at least one tooth. Depending on the extent of the resorption, your cat may suffer anything from minor pain to acute pain and tooth loss. In severe cases, cats may refuse to eat or even to be touched on the face. Other signs to watch for include:

• Jaw trembling
• Drooling
• A bloody mouth
• Tilting of the head while eating (an effort to chew on the unaffected side of the mouth)
• A new, unaccountable preference for soft foods

The cause of tooth resorption remains something of a veterinary mystery. It doesn't necessarily indicate poor dental hygiene, malnutrition, or any underlying medical condition.

Our Veterinarian Can Help Your Cat Feel (and Eat) Better

Regular preventative care exams can help our veterinarian spot a case of tooth resorption in its early stages. Of course, you should also bring your cat to us anytime you see clear signs of dental distress. X-rays can confirm resorptive lesions in any parts of the teeth.  Filling these resorptive lesions has not been found beneficial and it is best to extract the affected tooth to relieve pain and discomfort.   We can extract the tooth and recommend any necessary dietary changes to ensure that your cat gets their daily nutrition.

Meeting Your Veterinary Pet Care Needs in Ferndale, Monticello, and Liberty

When you need pet care for dogs or cats in Ferndale, Monticello, and Liberty, then you need Animal Hospital of Sullivan County. Call our veterinary office at (845) 292-6711.