Tooth resorption in cats occurs when the body breaks down and absorbs the structures that support the tooth. Today, our Natick vets discuss the symptoms of tooth resorption in cats and how your cat's rotten tooth can be treated.
What is tooth resorption in cats?
Tooth resorption is when the dentin (the hard tissue beneath a tooth's enamel) of a single tooth or multiple teeth erodes. If left untreated, tooth resorption in cats can cause irreparable damage.
Cats develop tooth resorption when their bodies start breaking down and absorbing the structures that form their tooth. Generally, this condition starts in the enamel and reaches the tooth's center. Eventually, most of the tooth will be completely gone. The premolars in the lower jaw (generally the third premolars) are the teeth that are most often affected.
Occasionally, this condition can make a hole in the middle of a cat's tooth, which could look like a cavity. However, tooth resorption and cavities differ because cavities result from bacteria, and the body's biological process causes tooth resorption. Cavities are also fairly rare in cats, so if you see a hole in your cat's tooth that looks like a cavity, it is most likely tooth resorption.
Tooth resorption is one of the most common dental conditions seen in cats. It can be painful for your feline friend, so it is important to bring your feline friend to the vet for routine dental exams so your vet can catch the condition as early as possible.
Are there different types of tooth resorption?
There are two types of tooth resorption that cats can develop. The type your cat has will be determined by the way the tooth appears on the radiograph your vet takes to diagnose this condition.
The causes of both types of tooth resorption in cats are unknown. However, maintaining good oral hygiene practices and regular professional oral examinations and cleanings is your cat's best chance of preventing or detecting this condition.
Here are the two types of tooth resorption in cats:
Type 1 Tooth Resorption
When cats have type 1 tooth resorption, it means the tooth's crown is damaged, but on the radiograph, the root looks normal, and the periodontal ligament can be easily recognized.
Type 2 Tooth Resorption
Also referred to as replacement resorption, this is where the root looks like it is disintegrating, making it hard to differentiate from the bone on the radiograph.
What are the causes of tooth resorption?
The exact cause of tooth resorption is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development. Here are some potential causes and contributing factors:
- Genetic Predisposition: Certain breeds of cats may have a genetic predisposition to developing tooth resorption. For example, purebred cats like Siamese, Abyssinians, and Persians are more prone to this condition.
- Chronic Inflammation: Long-term inflammation of the gums and periodontal tissues can activate cells that break down the tooth structure. Chronic gingivitis and periodontal disease are common in pets and can trigger resorption.
- Diet: Diets that are low in essential nutrients, particularly calcium and vitamin D, might contribute to the weakening of tooth structure. Additionally, diets high in soft food might not provide enough mechanical cleaning action, which helps prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.
- Trauma: Physical trauma to the teeth or jaw, such as from chewing on hard objects or previous dental procedures, can potentially trigger resorption processes.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Particularly those involving parathyroid hormone and calcium metabolism might play a role in tooth resorption.
- Infection: Dental infections that reach the tooth's root can cause inflammation and subsequent resorption of the tooth structure.
- Immune System Disorders: These disorders affect the immune system and can lead to abnormal inflammatory responses and contribute to the development of tooth resorption.
How do I know if my cat has tooth resorption?
While tooth resorption can be very painful for cats, it can be hard to recognize because our feline companions are very good at masking their pain. This makes it very important to be able to recognize the common signs and symptoms listed below:
- Increased Salivation
- Difficulty Eating
- Oral Bleeding
- Behavioral Changes
How Cats With Tooth Resorption Can Be Treated
Call your vet as quickly as possible if you think your cat may have tooth resorption. If your veterinarian suspects your feline friend has this condition, they will conduct radiographs and a clinical screening while your cat is under anesthesia. Your vet may also perform a complete dental screening. Without these tests, your cat's tooth resorption will go undiagnosed and continue to get worse, causing your kitty a great deal of pain.
If your vet diagnoses your cat with type 1 tooth resorption, they will most likely need to extract the root and crown. If your cat has type 2 tooth resorption, your vet may need to conduct a crown amputation with intentional root retention.
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.