What's Happening at TTAH
Veterinary Dental Radiography
We are pleased to announce that we are adding dental x-ray to our diagnostic tools.
Dental radiography is fast becoming a standard of care for veterinary patients. This tool allows us to have a better understanding of what we see when we are looking at the teeth. It can not only help us recognize diseases of which we were previously unaware but can also help us avoid having to perform painful extractions that may actually be unnecessary.
Looking at teeth in an awake patient is challenging. Rarely are we able to get a good look at every tooth. A sedated exam of the teeth is far superior, we can easily see every tooth, assess for looseness or pockets and evaluate roots. The difference between an awake dental exam in a dog or cat and a sedated dental exam is comparable to the difference between doing a sedated dental exam and doing dental radiographs. The majority of the changes occur below the gumline, and radiographs are the only way to definitively know what is going on.
Unerupted teeth can be a significant source of pain in dogs. Other than the absence of a tooth, there is evidence of an unerupted tooth on oral exam. Radiographs can tell us if the tooth is retained or just missing. If the tooth is retained, we are able to ascertain exactly where it is and extract it without much issue.
Many dogs and cats, especially older pets, have significant periodontal disease and bad teeth. In some of the patients, the bone is so compromised, extracting a loose tooth can fracture the jaw. Dental radiographs can let us see the condition of the bone and make a more educated decision about whether or not to extract those teeth.
A common problem with cats is tooth resorption. This can occur in two different ways: Type 1 and Type 2. With Type 1 resorption, the root remains intact, causing great pain and sometimes abscesses. These teeth need to be extracted. However, with Type 2 resorption, the bone replaces the root. These teeth still need to be treated, but rather than a painful extraction, we can cut away the crown of the tooth to treat them successfully. Radiographs are the only way to differentiate between a Type 1 and Type 2 resorption.
Fractured teeth are another area in which dental radiography is extremely helpful. We frequently see fractures of the tips of teeth, especially in dogs. Most of the time, the fractures are not a significant problem, not affecting the tooth. However, in some cases, the root is affected, and the tooth essentially dies. This can lead to pain and infection. Dental radiography quickly tells us if the root is dead and if the tooth is a problem.
Dental radiography also is a big help with planning extractions of teeth that need to come out. Some tooth roots are curved or twisted and being aware of this prior to the extraction will help prevent fracture of the root and decrease the invasiveness of the extraction. They are also extremely helpful in confirming that the entire root or roots have been removed.
Dental radiography is an important tool in identifying dental issues and decreasing dental pain as well as decreasing the pain and duration of dental procedures.
Looking at teeth in an awake patient is challenging. Rarely are we able to get a good look at every tooth. A sedated exam of the teeth is far superior, we can easily see every tooth, assess for looseness or pockets and evaluate roots. The difference between an awake dental exam in a dog or cat and a sedated dental exam is comparable to the difference between doing a sedated dental exam and doing dental radiographs. The majority of the changes occur below the gumline, and radiographs are the only way to definitively know what is going on.
Unerupted teeth can be a significant source of pain in dogs. Other than the absence of a tooth, there is evidence of an unerupted tooth on oral exam. Radiographs can tell us if the tooth is retained or just missing. If the tooth is retained, we are able to ascertain exactly where it is and extract it without much issue.
Many dogs and cats, especially older pets, have significant periodontal disease and bad teeth. In some of the patients, the bone is so compromised, extracting a loose tooth can fracture the jaw. Dental radiographs can let us see the condition of the bone and make a more educated decision about whether or not to extract those teeth.
A common problem with cats is tooth resorption. This can occur in two different ways: Type 1 and Type 2. With Type 1 resorption, the root remains intact, causing great pain and sometimes abscesses. These teeth need to be extracted. However, with Type 2 resorption, the bone replaces the root. These teeth still need to be treated, but rather than a painful extraction, we can cut away the crown of the tooth to treat them successfully. Radiographs are the only way to differentiate between a Type 1 and Type 2 resorption.
Fractured teeth are another area in which dental radiography is extremely helpful. We frequently see fractures of the tips of teeth, especially in dogs. Most of the time, the fractures are not a significant problem, not affecting the tooth. However, in some cases, the root is affected, and the tooth essentially dies. This can lead to pain and infection. Dental radiography quickly tells us if the root is dead and if the tooth is a problem.
Dental radiography also is a big help with planning extractions of teeth that need to come out. Some tooth roots are curved or twisted and being aware of this prior to the extraction will help prevent fracture of the root and decrease the invasiveness of the extraction. They are also extremely helpful in confirming that the entire root or roots have been removed.
Dental radiography is an important tool in identifying dental issues and decreasing dental pain as well as decreasing the pain and duration of dental procedures.
Thanks to everyone who came to our open house!
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Here's what people are saying:
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"The Tidewater Team is always ready to assist! Every appointment I have had has been excellent in service, time and especially care and concern for my pets. Thank you for treating them like family!"
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"My cat came to my house. He appears to have had bad experiences with people when he was lost. TWT Vet is wonderful with this cat providing great care and attention, treating my cat gently and lovingly, soft spoken and my cat stays calm. TY"
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"You're always taking the most consideration possible for our pups; great forethought and planning. The Dr. is always looking out for the best of our fuzzy family. I love Tidewater Trail, haven't been this happy with a vet for a long time!"
"The vets and staff are the best around. They took such good care of my last dog and now the same is true for my new dachshund. There are several places closer to me, but I choose to drive farther to go to Tidewater Trail. Totally worth it!"
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"Everyone who works here are unbelievably nice, compassionate and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend Tidewater Trail Animal Hospital"
Front staff was welcoming and helpful. Dr was fantastic, listened to our concerns and gave us great suggestions."
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Yes! We are taking new clients!!!!
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