What FORL is
Tooth tissue is gradually resorbed — starting near the gumline, then deeper. The tooth may look "worn away" or have a red line at the neck.
How it shows up
A cat may eat cautiously, flinch while chewing, drool, or avoid touch to the face. Sometimes there's only a smell from the mouth with no other symptoms.
- Flinching while chewing
- Refusing dry food
- Visibly "worn" or darkened teeth
Diagnosis
A full examination under anaesthesia with X-rays is the only reliable way to find every affected tooth, including those that look normal from the outside.
Approach to treatment
At certain stages the tooth is extracted to relieve pain. There's currently no way to prevent resorption — regular diagnostics are important.
When to see a vet
- The cat flinches while eating, avoids dry food, or avoids touch to the face
- Worn, darkened teeth or a red line near the gum are noticeable
- Persistent bad breath with no other explanation
What not to do at home
- Don't assume "worn" teeth are just a sign of ageing without an examination
- Don't delay a visit because appetite seems "normal"
- Don't treat symptoms with antibiotics without a diagnosis
Frequently asked questions
FORL is predominantly a feline condition. In dogs, other types of resorption are rare and have different causes.
At certain stages, extraction is the most humane option. The vet assesses this after an X-ray.