Dental Procedures for Cats

Painful dental symptoms often get overlooked by pet owners.  However, dental problems, if not addressed can lead to further pain for your pet and even death. Several dental procedures for cats can help eliminate pain, and perhaps slow or even stop the progression of dental disease.

Dental Cleaning

Dental cleaning, a first line defense in combating periodontal disease; also offers detection of other possible dental problems.  This procedure involves more than merely glancing in the cat’s mouth during a routine office visit.

Most veterinarians recommend that your cat be placed under anesthesia for this procedure.  A small risk from anesthesia is possible, but under normal circumstances, not enough to avoid its use.  So, if someone recommends doing a dental cleaning without anesthesia; ask why.  In this situation, and for your pet’s safety, get a second opinion.

To receive a proper cleaning your cat needs anesthesia.  This dental procedure includes a thorough cleaning and polishing of your cat’s teeth.  You may also ask the vet to apply a plaque preventative to your cat’s teeth during the cleaning.

During the cleaning, the veterinarian will take an x-ray and check for any hidden problems.  

Root Canal

Choose a root canal when a tooth has damage - with exposed pulp. Do not perform a home diagnosis, if your cat received damage to a tooth; seek treatment immediately.  Only a qualified veterinarian can determine if the pulp has been exposed.

This treatment can also save a cat’s abscessed tooth.                                     

Extraction

Extraction is another dental procedure for cats.  The veterinarian will not pull your cat’s teeth.  A tooth must be surgically removed. Extraction is needed if teeth are damaged from injury, or causing the cat pain from dental diseases or misalignment.

Orthodontics

Orthodontics is another option for your pet, if it suffers from misalignment, and you prefer not to have your cat’s teeth extracted.  Orthodontics is only an option when your cat is suffering and not done for beauty. Treatment does not take years, it only takes weeks.