Tooth Structure

Each tooth is a complex structure:

• Crown: The visible portion above the gum line.
• Root: Anchored in the jawbone, often 2-3 times longer than the crown.
• Enamel: The hard, protective outer layer.
• Dentin: The layer beneath the enamel.
• Pulp: The inner chamber containing nerves and blood vessels.
• Periodontal Ligament: Connects the tooth root to the jawbone.

Common Feline Dental Diseases

1. Periodontal Disease

The most prevalent dental condition in cats, caused by plaque and tartar buildup leading to inflammation and infection of the structures supporting the teeth.

Stages of Progression:

1. Gingivitis: Reversible inflammation of the gums only.
2. Early Periodontitis: Up to 25% loss of supporting bone.
3. Moderate Periodontitis: 25-50% bone loss.
4. Severe Periodontitis: Over 50% bone loss; tooth loss is likely.

2. Tooth Resorption (FORLs)

The second most common disease, affecting 20-75% of cats. These painful lesions cause the tooth structure to erode. The exact cause is unknown, and treatment usually requires extraction of the affected tooth.

3. Stomatitis

A severe, painful inflammation of the entire mouth lining (mucosa). Symptoms include bright red gums, ulcerations, drooling, and extreme difficulty eating. Full-mouth extractions are often necessary for long-term management.

4. Fractured Teeth

Commonly caused by trauma or chewing on hard objects. Treatment options include extraction or, for strategic teeth, root canal therapy.

Recognizing the Signs of Dental Problems

Cats are masters at hiding pain. Be vigilant for these subtle and not-so-subtle clues.

Behavioral & Physical Signs

• Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
• Drooling, sometimes tinged with blood
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Reluctance to eat, especially hard food, or dropping food while eating
• Noticeable weight loss
• New preference for only soft food
• Irritability or head-shyness

Visual Signs During Inspection

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth
• Loose, broken, or missing teeth
• Ulcers on the gums, tongue, or lips
• Facial swelling (may indicate an abscess)

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Home Dental Care: Your First Line of Defense

Tooth Brushing: The Gold Standard

Essential Supplies:

• Cat-specific toothpaste (NEVER use human toothpaste, as it contains toxic xylitol and fluoride).
• A soft-bristled cat toothbrush or finger brush.

Step-by-Step Training Process:

1. Week 1-2 (Introduction): Let your cat lick the tasty paste from your finger. Gently handle their muzzle and lift their lips, offering praise and treats.
2. Week 3-4 (Familiarization): Rub their teeth and gums with your finger or a finger brush. Introduce the toothbrush without paste.
3. Week 5+ (Brushing): Use a small amount of paste. Gently brush in small circles, focusing on the outer surfaces where plaque accumulates. Aim for 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

Frequency: Daily is ideal, but 3-4 times a week provides significant benefit. Any brushing is better than none.

Alternative Home Care Products

For cats who absolutely refuse brushing, these adjuncts can help:

• Dental Wipes: Used to rub plaque from teeth.
• Oral Gels: Enzymatic gels applied to gums to reduce bacteria.
• Water Additives: Added to drinking water to help reduce plaque-forming bacteria.

Dental Diets & Treats

Specially formulated foods and treats can provide mechanical cleaning or contain plaque-fighting ingredients. Look for products accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). Remember, these are supplements to, not replacements for, brushing.

Professional Veterinary Dental Care

What Happens During a Professional Cleaning?

A comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment (COHAT) under general anesthesia is required for proper care.

1. Pre-Anesthetic Workup: Physical exam and blood tests to ensure safe anesthesia.
2. Anesthesia & Monitoring: Your cat is safely anesthetized and monitored by a dedicated technician (ECG, blood pressure, oxygen).
3. Oral Exam & X-Rays: A tooth-by-tooth exam and full-mouth X-rays are critical, as 60% of each tooth is below the gum line.
4. Scaling & Polishing: Ultrasonic and hand scaling remove tartar; polishing smooths the enamel.
5. Treatment: Extractions or other procedures are performed as needed.
6. Recovery & Plan: Your cat recovers comfortably, and a follow-up home care plan is provided.

Understanding the Costs of Professional Care (2026 Estimates)

Costs vary widely by location, facility, and the severity of your cat's condition.

Anesthesia Safety: Modern protocols make anesthesia very safe. Pre-anesthetic testing and intensive monitoring minimize risks for cats of all ages.

Lifelong Preventive Care Schedule

Nutrition, Supplements & Dental Health

• Dry vs. Wet Food: The debate is largely moot for dental health. Neither prevents disease on its own. Focus on a balanced diet your cat enjoys and maintain rigorous oral hygiene.
• Raw Diets & Bones: Carry risks of bacterial contamination and tooth fractures, with no proven dental benefit.
• Supplements: Products like PlaqueOff (seaweed-based) or specific probiotics may offer supplementary benefits as part of a comprehensive plan.

Conclusion: A Commitment to Comfort and Health

Your cat's dental health is a cornerstone of their overall wellness. By implementing consistent daily care, scheduling regular professional evaluations, and being alert to subtle signs of trouble, you can prevent painful disease and contribute to a longer, healthier life for your feline companion.

Remember: Cats are experts at concealing dental pain. Proactive, preventive care is always simpler, kinder, and more cost-effective than treating advanced disease.

Sources: American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC), American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). Information reviewed for 2026.