Overbite dentition is an abnormal relationship between the dental arches in which the lower jaw is shorter than normal relative to the upper jaw. Veterinary dentists classify this dentition as a Type 2 malocclusion; it is also called mandibular distocclusion or brachygnathism. Dog breeds commonly...
The most common orthodontic abnormality seen in dogs is base narrow canines. In this condition the lower canine teeth are angled straight upward, instead of tipping outward. Some patients may display only mild contact of the affected canines with the upper gums, requiring minimal intervention....
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common oral tumor seen in the feline. SCC accounts for 70% of all oral tumors in the cat and usually occurs in older cats. Oral SCC should be considered in cats with oral swelling, drooling, sudden bad breath,...
Feline inductive odontogenic tumor (FIOT) is a rare neoplasm reported only in young cats, usually under 18-months-of-age . It is most commonly diagnosed in domestic shorthaired cats; there does not appear to be a gender predilection. FIOT most commonly occurs in the rostral...
Growths or tumors can occur anywhere in the body, and the mouth is no exception. To diagnose what exactly the growth is, dental x-rays and a biopsy are most often recommended. Depending on the type of tumor and age of the patient, additional diagnostics that...
Gingival hyperplasia is over-proliferation or thickening of the gingiva or gums. It can occur in one place or throughout the mouth. Boxers, Great Danes, and Collies top the list of breeds presenting for gingival hyperplasia. It is also seen in Mastiffs, Bulldogs, Bassett Hounds, Pit...
A condition seen in puppies where the gum tissue (gingiva) is thickened. This condition causes problems when the thickened gums prevents or delays teeth eruption. This condition is most common in Soft Coated Wheaton terriers, Tibetan Terriers, Lhasa apsos, Havanese, and Portugese Water Dogs. It's...
Some immature cats display pronounced inflammation of the gums that has not spread to the back of the mouth called feline juvenile gingivitis. Causes may include exaggerated inflammation at the time of tooth eruption, viral exposure (FeLV, FIV, Calici), immune-mediated disorders, or mixture of reasons. If...
During development, incomplete closure of the palate, the tissue on the upper jaw, may result in an open defect or cleft palate. Occasionally when the cleft palate was caused by a developmental problem, a malformed nose may also be present (cleft nares). Developmental clefts palates...
Supernumerary, or extra, teeth may or may not result in secondary problems. The most common problems that may occur because of supernumerary teeth include orthodontic malocclusion or crowding of teeth. Supernumerary teeth should be radiographed (x-rayed) to make sure they are healthy and not causing...