We are very pleased to now offer dental X-rays as part of our commitment to improving the dental health of our patients.
Two-thirds of dogs’ and cats’ teeth are under their gums. Dental X-rays allow us to make a full assessment of your pet’s teeth prior to their dental procedure as they show us the parts of the tooth we cannot visualise, including the soft tissue and bone surrounding the teeth. Tooth problems identified using dental X-rays include:
- Periodontal disease – the bone around the tooth root can recede, reducing the attachment of the tooth to the bone, and exposing sensitive and painful parts of the tooth.
- Tooth root abscesses – these can occur even if the visible part of the tooth looks healthy and can be incredibly painful. Antibiotics alone are not likely to solve the problem and extraction is usually necessary.
- Resorptive lesions – this painful disease is particularly common in cats. Some of the lesions are located below the gum line and are only visible on X-rays.
If you are concerned about your pet’s teeth or would like some advice on how to care for their teeth to help prevent dental disease, then please get in touch or take advantage of our free dental health nurse clinic.
