Introduction

• Clients approaching the veterinary clinic with a specific oral or dental concern for their pet represent only a small proportion of pet owners with animals exhibiting dental disease. The vast majority of oral pathology is 'out of sight, out of mind' and clinical signs may be absent or complex. Malignant changes often go undetected until late stage without regular oral checks.
• Each tooth may be seen as an individual 'patient' - with 42 teeth in the dog and 30 in the cat, there is a lot to look at. Furthermore, on viewing the oral cavity, only a low percentage of pathology is readily identifiable. It is, therefore, essential that animals receive monitoring on a regular basis and where concern or doubt exists thorough oral evaluation under general anesthesia is advised.

Use the interactive tool from ROYAL CANIN® UK  to explain dog anatomy and disease conditions to your client. Visit ROYAL CANIN Natom Explorer to find out more.​

History and examination

Oral assessment

Oral radiology

Recheck and Puppy and Kitten Clinics

Further Reading

Publications

Refereed papers

• Recent references from PubMed and VetMedResource.