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Uncomplicated Dental (Tooth) Fractures in Cats

Uncomplicated Tooth Fractures in CatsDental fractures are a common problem in veterinary medicine. Both dogs and cats experience these fractures at a rate of 10% to 20% of all pets. Dogs, however, not only seem likelier to sustain these types of injuries, they’re also susceptible to a wider variety of dental fractures than their feline counterparts.
Fractures are often roughly classified as either complicated or uncomplicated.Due to their typical differences in cause, diagnosis and treatment, there is a separate article for complicated dental fractures in cats.Cats most often suffer fractures to their canine teeth. As in dogs, the maxillary canines are more susceptible to fracture than the mandibular canines.
While trauma is the most common cause of uncomplicated dental fractures, abrasion of the teeth (as when chewing hard objects over a long period of time) and attrition (defined as abrasion that occurs with tooth on tooth contact), are also possible causes. The mandibular incisors are more commonly affected than most other teeth. If this damage is severe, complicated fractures may also ensue.Uncomplicated dental fracture types include the following:- Enamel infraction (incomplete crack in the enamel)

What to Watch For:

The clinical signs of dental fractures are not always as obvious as cat owners might suppose. Indeed, most cats don’t display any outward signs of discomfort. In large part, that’s because most uncomplicated fractures are not painful. That is, unless the pulp becomes infected or the fracture extends beneath the gumline. Most of these cats manage to avoid detection either by chewing with the other side of their mouths or by swallowing their food whole.

Owners who brush their cats’ teeth or are otherwise able to explore their cats’ mouths may observe one or more of the following signs:

Diagnosis of Uncomplicated Tooth Fractures in Cats

Diagnosis of uncomplicated dental fractures is generally achieved by simple observation. However, dental X-rays may be required in some cases to ensure the integrity of the affected tooth’s root.

Dogs and cats whose dental fractures have led to a tooth root abscess may notice swelling on the side of the face and sometimes even open, oozing sores on the face (most commonly under the eye).

Treatment of Uncomplicated Tooth Fractures in Cats

Treatment of uncomplicated dental fractures depends on their type:

Veterinary Cost Associated with Uncomplicated Dental Fractures

The cost of dental fractures varies depending on the kind of fracture and the elected level of treatment. Because many uncomplicated fractures are left untreated, the expense of their treatment tends to be minimal.

If restoration is elected, as is recommended with most, expenses generally come in at $300 to $500. Board-certified veterinary dentists, however, may charge more for this procedure.