Tooth resorption occurs when an animal's tooth is attacked by its own body and undergoes disintegration. Tooth resorption usually originates below the gum line, but is not visualized until it spreads to above the gum line. This condition occurs in many animal species, but most...
Enamel dysplasia literally means that the enamel, the outside layer of the tooth, did not form properly during development. It is either caused by enamel hypoplasia or hypocalcification. It can occur either on a few teeth or can affect the whole mouth. Teeth will often...
Just like in people, carious lesions (cavities) can occur in dogs and rarely in cats. The most commonly affected teeth are the back molars. Like human teeth, dog molars have a relatively flat chewing surface, with deep pits and fissures. Bacteria can invade the tooth...
Attrition is the physical wear of teeth as a result of heavy chewing, biting, or wearing against other teeth (like with orthodontic malocclusion). Teeth with attrition appear shortened in height. Skin allergies and resultant chewing may cause attrition of the incisors (front teeth). Tennis balls and...