My cat has tooth resorption. Are dental x-rays necessary?

Question

Hello, I had a vet diagnose Level 3-4 Resorptive lesions on three of my cats premolars last week. She suggested Oral exam and said teeth are often extracted to address this. The vet said they do not use x-ray to decide what teeth might have to be removed but rather it's based on probing and charting of the teeth in the exam. Should i be concerned that they do not use radiography ? And, can FORLs be prevented after surgery? I am worried abt. the surgery Thanks mike. Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 8 years old | 14 lbs

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. Most veterinarians can identify the resorptive lesions during an oral exam, but x-rays can be very useful for identifying early lesions, or any possibility of a retained tooth root remnant(s). Not all veterinarians are set up to do dental radiographs, and, this will add substantially to the procedure cost. Are x-rays the better way to go? Absolutely. As for preventing FORLs. Unfortunately, we just do not know. We still do not understand the pathophysiology of tooth resorption. Extraction is the treatment of choice. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

My cat has tooth resorption. Are dental x-rays necessary?

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