Many factors may contribute to the development of oral inflammation in the cat, including diet, oral conformation, immune-mediated diseases, infectious diseases, and specific breed characteristics. Oral inflammatory conditions have been described in the immature feline, including feline juvenile gingivitis, juvenile-onset periodontitis, stomatitis, tooth resorption, or...
The tongue serves as a remarkable organ with a wide range of functions in dogs. It enables vocalization, grasping and swallowing food and water, chewing, grooming, and suckling. Additionally, it plays a role in regulating body temperature through panting. Precise movements of the canine tongue are...
To comprehend the meaning behind excessive drooling in dogs, it's crucial to understand the normal anatomy and physiology of saliva production. Dogs constantly produce and secrete saliva into their oral cavity from salivary glands. There are four pairs of major salivary glands in dogs: the parotid,...
While dogs typically perform wide, toothy yawns effortlessly, there are instances where they may exhibit signs of pain or difficulty when opening their mouths. These signs can include crying out, jerking their head back while attempting to yawn or chew on something firm, limited jaw...
This question arises frequently nowadays. Over the past 5 to 10 years, certain pet food companies have effectively bombarded us with the idea that dogs are essentially wolves and should therefore eat as wolves do. However, it is important to acknowledge that dogs have been...
Has your veterinarian ever urged you to brush your dog's teeth? While it may seem like a daunting and potentially risky task, with the right tools, technique, training, and a positive mindset, it can be accomplished, ideally on a daily basis. When undertaking this important...
Step 1 Dental Radiograph (X-rays) Intra-oral dental x-rays before, during, and after the procedure are essential. Step 2 Pain Control Regional Nerve Blocks, just like the novocaine blocks you would receive at the dentist, are one of the tools used to...
Sialoceles , or accumulation of saliva in subcutaneous tissues, are often traumatic in origin, and can be seen in cases of iatrogenic injury. Saliva accumulates when the salivary duct is obstructed or ruptured. Although the swelling itself is usually painless, the clinical signs can...
Masticatory myositis is a neuromuscular disorder that affects dogs and literally means inflammation of the muscles involved in chewing (mastication). With this autoimmune disease, the body starts attacking its own cells for unknown reasons. In the early stages, the muscles involved in chewing can become...
Autoimmune diseases occur when the body starts attacking its own cells. Pemphigus vulgaris and bullous pemphigoid are two immune mediated diseases that are seen within the mouth. The exact appearance of the disease varies but the inflammation is usually characterized by redness and changes in...