Traumatic malocclusions refer to misalignments or abnormalities in the positioning of the teeth and jaws. This can be genetic (how our pet was born), or acquired as a result of accident and injury.This condition can manifest in various ways, depending on the severity and location of the malocclusion. In some cases, traumatic malocclusions may result in visibly misaligned or protruding teeth, difficulty closing the mouth properly, or an abnormal bite pattern. Pets with traumatic malocclusions are painful, and may have difficulty eating, chewing, or grooming.

Non-traumatic malocclusions are misalignments or abnormalities in the teeth and jaws that occur without causing direct trauma when the mouth is closed. Whilst they aren’t directly painful, they can interfere with the function of a tooth, and also make the tooth at far higher risk of periodontal disease and ultimately extraction.

Periodontal disease in pets is a common dental condition characterised by inflammation and infection of the structures supporting the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligaments, and underlying bone. It typically develops due to the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which harbour bacteria that irritate the gums and trigger an inflammatory response.

Periodontal disease progresses in stages, starting with gingivitis, where the gums become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding, and advancing to periodontitis, where the inflammation extends deeper into the supporting tissues, leading to gum recession, tooth mobility, and bone loss. Once well established, periodontal disease is manageable, but not reversible.

Feline stomatitis is a severe and painful inflammatory condition affecting the oral mucosa, particularly the gums and tissues lining the mouth, in cats. It is characterised by widespread inflammation, ulceration, and sometimes proliferation of tissue in the oral cavity, often extending to the back of the throat. Cats with stomatitis are extremely painful and may exhibit symptoms such as difficulty eating, excessive drooling, reluctance to groom, pawing at the mouth, and halitosis.

Gingival hyperplasia in pets refers to an abnormal overgrowth of the gums, resulting in an excessive enlargement of the gum tissue. This condition can occur as a result of various factors, including genetic predisposition, certain medications, or underlying health conditions such as periodontal disease. Pets with gingival hyperplasia may exhibit symptoms such as swollen, red, and inflamed gums, which may extend over the surfaces of the teeth and lead to difficulty eating, chewing, or grooming. In severe cases, gingival hyperplasia can cause discomfort, pain, and an increased risk of dental problems such as periodontal disease or tooth decay.

Chipped teeth in pets occur when the tooth structure becomes fractured or broken due to trauma, injury, or dental disease. This condition can vary in severity, with visible damage to the tooth's enamel and/or dentin. Pets with chipped teeth will experience discomfort when eating and chewing but are unlikely to show symptoms. Chipped teeth are a portal for infection into the internal tooth structure, ultimately leading to tooth death.

Vital pulpotomy is used when teeth are fractured suddenly, often due to trauma from fights or road trauma. This technique is used to preserve fractured teeth, rather than removing them. It must be performed quickly, within 24 hours of injury.

Jaw fractures often present as a visible deformity or misalignment of the jaw, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, pain, swelling, and reluctance to eat or drink. Prompt veterinary evaluation and treatment are essential to assess the extent of the fracture and provide appropriate care to ensure the pet's comfort and recovery. Non-invasive techniques such as acrylics and splints can be used to stabilise the jaw without performing aggressive oral surgery.

Oral tumours in pets are abnormal growths that develop in the mouth, including both cancerous (malignant) and benign (non-cancerous) types. These tumours can vary in appearance, ranging from small, raised lumps or masses to ulcerated lesions or discoloured areas on the gums, tongue, or other oral tissues. Pets with oral tumours may exhibit symptoms such as difficulty eating or swallowing, drooling, bad breath, bleeding from the mouth, swelling of the face or jaw, and weight loss. Depending on the type and location of the tumour, it can cause pain, discomfort, and functional impairment, impacting the pet's quality of life.

Pets suffering with advanced oral health issues requiring extensive care benefit from treatment with an experienced clinician. Anaesthetics can be lengthy, and our patients often have other health concerns that need to be accounted for, such as their breed (pug-faced breeds), age (very old or very young) and other disease processes (such as heart murmurs). A veterinarian experienced in dentistry can make all the difference to the experience of these pets, and their families.