Diseases of the Teeth

Some mouth problems start with diseases of the teeth. The earliest change we see is the build up of plaque and tarter. Dental plaque, a sticky substance that covers the teeth, consists of bacteria, saliva, food particles and epithelial cells. Plaque builds up on the tooth surface and gum line every day. Left undisturbed the plaque can mineralize, or harden, in less than 2 days, forming calculus or tartar.

Dental tartar is a film that covers teeth consisting of calcium phosphate and carbonate, food particles and other organic matter, or is basically "mineralized plaque". The tartar will stick to the tooth surface forming a scaffold for more plaque accumulation. If allowed to accumulate this material will work itself under the gums and damage the teeth. The best way to avoid this problem is to have the teethed cleaned under an anesthetic so that the deep tarter can be removed. More than fifty percent of cats over three years old will be affected develop tarter and if left untreated will progress to tooth resorption. 

Resoprtive lesions have also been called cavities, neck lesions, external and internal root resorptions, or cervical line erosions. Affected teeth will erode and finally disappear when they are absorbed back into the cat's body. The root structure breaks down; then the enamel, most of the tooth is ruined, and bone replaces the tooth. This most commonly happens where the gum meets the tooth surface. Some molars are most commonly affected; however, tooth resorptions can be found on any tooth.

Tooth resorptions can be quite painful. Affected cats often show  excessive salivation, bleeding in the mouth, or have difficulty eating, but the majority of affected cats do not show obvious clinical signs. Most times the dental disease will become apparent only after a physical examination. When problems are seen, they need to be further evaluated by probing and x-rays.

CHECK TO SEE IF YOUR CAT NEEDS DENTAL CARE