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Overview:
Endodontic relates to the inner
structures of the tooth, including the pulp & tissues
surrounding the tooth root.
Endodontic disease refers to any
inflammation of the pulp, known as
pulpitis.
Pulpitis can be
reversible or irreversible. In the case of reversible pulpitis,
once the cause of inflammation is removed, the pulp returns to
it's healthy state. Left untreated, irreversible pulpitis
occurs, resulting from severe inflammation of the pulp which is
extremely painful. Over time, the pulp becomes necrotic (dies),
and pain subsides.
The cause in cats is usually a
dental fracture which exposes the pulp, although caries &
advanced periodontal disease can also be causes. Bacteria from
the mouth gain
access to the exposed area causing infection. Upper canine teeth are especially predisposed to trauma
[1]. Bacteria can descend to the root causing an abscess.
Symptoms of tooth root abscess include reluctance to eat,
bleeding from the nose & facial swelling.
What are the
symptoms of endodontic disease in cats?
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When the pulp is first exposed,
the tooth is painful
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Once the tooth has died, there
may be little to no pain
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Some tooth root abscesses may
open to the outside, forming a draining tract. Or there may be
oral swelling
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If the tooth has died, it may be
discoloured or 'grey'.
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Fever
may be present if your cat has a dental root abscess
Any dental fracture warrants a
trip to the veterinarian. Cats are very stoic & while they may
not appear to be in pain, they undoubtedly will be. Immediate
treatment of a fractured tooth can save your cat from
unnecessary pain & quite likely prevent loss of the tooth.
How is endodontic
disease diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will perform a
physical examination & examine the mouth. A fractured tooth, a
draining tract or a discloured tooth all indicate endodontic
disease. Swelling around the affected tooth may also be visible.
Dental x-rays will help your
veterinarian assess the severity of the infection.
How is endodontic
disease treated?
This depends on how damaged the
tooth is. If it can be saved, he will perform root canal
treatment on the tooth. If the tooth is badly infected or dead,
he will extract it.
How to prevent
endodontic disease:
Seek veterinarian assistance
immediately if your cat has a tooth fracture. The problem will
not go away without attention.
References:
[1] Cat Health Encyclopedia -
Edited by Lowell Ackerman.
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