Neglecting your pet's oral health can result in a variety of health issues. Today, our Phoenix vets discuss dental radiographs and how they are important in caring for the oral health of cats and dogs.
Importance of Oral Health in Pets
Like humans, our pets can suffer from various dental problems, such as periodontal disease, tooth decay, and oral tumors. Left untreated, these issues can progress, leading to pain, discomfort, and possible infections.
Dental problems can also impact everyday activities like eating, grooming, and playing, significantly reducing the pet's quality of life. This is why your pet's oral healthcare should not be overlooked.
Significance of Dog & Cat Dental Radiographs
Although it is important that your pet receives regular dental check-ups, they might not be enough to ensure that your pet's oral health is as good as it could be. With feline and canine dental radiographs, veterinarians can look beyond the surface and uncover hidden dental issues that can't be seen with the naked eye.
Dental radiographs, also known as dental X-rays, provide valuable insights into your pet's oral health by uncovering hard-to-see conditions like tooth root abscesses, fractures, and bone loss. Cat and dog dental X-rays also help detect dental problems early before they become severe, allowing your vet to create a personalized treatment plan.
How often should my dog's or cat's teeth be X-rayed?
Dogs and cats require regular oral check-ups to ensure their dental health is on the right track. If you notice missing, discolored, or broken teeth, swollen and inflamed gums, oral growths, or bad breath, your cat or dog should receive an oral examination right away so they can receive prompt treatment.
However, even if there are no apparent problems, pets should have dental X-rays performed at least once per year. Keep in mind, that one human year equals roughly 5-7 dog years, and people typically get have dental X-rays at least every other year.
Must my dog or cat be anesthetized for X-rays?
Dogs have 42 teeth, while cats have 30 teeth that require examination. For accurate oral evaluation, treatment, and preventative procedures, pets must remain still during the process, making anesthesia necessary.
Without anesthesia, it can be quite difficult for the X-ray sensor to be positioned accurately. After a thorough examination and necessary pre-anesthetic tests, your veterinarian can determine if your pet is healthy enough to undergo anesthesia and customize the amount of anesthesia to your pet's requirements.
During any procedure needing anesthesia, your cat or dog will be closely monitored at all times.
Kitten & Puppy Teeth X-rays
Puppies and kittens can benefit from dental radiographs, also known as teeth X-rays, during their early stages of life. Dental issues can arise in young animals just as in adults, and early detection is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of further complications. It's important because vets can detect developmental abnormalities, assess dental plans, and provide appropriate dental care.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.