Indications in cats
TR at the stage when the tooth is painful and cannot be preserved. Teeth that injure the lining of the mouth in FCGS. An untreatable root infection. Marked periodontal mobility.
- Tooth resorption (TR) — a painful tooth on X-ray
- FCGS — teeth that sustain the chronic inflammation
- A root infection that cannot be treated
- A fractured root
How it differs from dogs
In dogs, teeth are more often extracted because of periodontal mobility. In cats — because of TR and FCGS, even if the tooth looks “intact” from the outside. TR is diagnosed most often in cats; dogs can have resorption too.
TR and extraction
With TR at the late stages, extracting the affected tooth is the most frequent approach. The aim is to relieve pain. I do not make the decision without dental X-rays — TR has stages and types.
Why a cat may keep eating before extraction
Cats mask pain. The owner puts it off because the cat “eats normally”. After painful teeth have been extracted, many cats eat better — owners notice it.
After extraction
Many cats feel relief. Aftercare and soft food follow the instructions. A follow-up examination as scheduled, especially if TR has already been diagnosed.
What the owner should do
Do not put it off because the appetite is “normal”. Do not treat FCGS with antibiotics alone without examining the teeth. Book a consultation.
When to see a vet
- A cat suddenly jerks its head back or stops eating mid-meal, or avoids being touched on the face
- TR or FCGS has been diagnosed — a treatment plan is needed
- Dental X-rays have shown damage that cannot be preserved
- Persistent bad breath, drooling, the cat chews on one side
- The vet has recommended extraction after an examination
- After an earlier extraction — monitoring of the other teeth in TR
- Periodontitis with loose teeth
- You need a second opinion — a dentist's consultation
What not to do at home
- Do not delay treatment because the appetite is “normal”
- Do not treat stomatitis with antibiotics alone without examining the teeth
- Do not compare the approach with dogs
- Do not try to examine the teeth by force
- Do not expect brushing to cure TR
Frequently asked questions
Yes, cats generally eat soft food after extraction. I will advise the diet.
The extent depends on the diagnostics. I determine which teeth are sustaining the inflammation.
Under anaesthesia — no. Afterwards, pain relief. Cats generally recover quickly.
It depends on the stage and type. At the late stages, extraction is the most frequent approach.
It depends on the clinical picture. Cats adapt, including after multiple extractions.
Sources and professional guidelines
- WSAVA Global Dental GuidelinesGlobal guidelines for veterinary dentistry
- AAHA Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and CatsClinical guidelines for dental care
- AVDC: Tooth ResorptionClassification of tooth resorption (TR) by stage and type
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