Cat cavities that are not cavities
Feline tooth resorption is a common and painful condition in cats caused by the erosion of tooth enamel. Studies have shown over 65-85% of cats over the age of 5 are affected by tooth resorption. The most common teeth affected are the lower premolars. These lesions were originally called “cat cavities”. We know they are not caused by bacteria like human cavities and therefore “cat cavities” is an incorrect term. Currently the cause is unknown , but genetics seem to play a role.
Tooth resorption appears as gum tissue growing into the tooth or covering the base of the tooth. Often teeth undergoing resorption will only be detected by dental radiographs (x-rays) as two thirds of cat’s teeth are under the gums and are not viewable. Studies have shown that without dental radiographs, significant pathology is missed in up to 75% of pets.
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