Dental X-rays, How to obtain and what to see

Dental radiology is a core skill in SA veterinary practice. The visible part of the tooth (crown) is only around 30% of the total length. The root, comprising 70% of the total, is invisible to a gross examination. Most of the common dental conditions in practice, specifically periodontal or endodontic disease, require diagnostic radiographs to diagnose, prognose and establish a treatment plan. Periodontal disease is one of tooth attachment loss whereas endodontic disease is one of toxin leakage through the root apex. In addition, Feline Tooth Resorption lesions (Feline TR) require radiographs to differentiate those teeth that need conventional extraction from those that need crown amputation. Missing teeth are common and need to proven to be so radiographically. A tooth is not missing until the radiographs says so. Teeth not visible can be impacted or embedded in the jaw. In most cases these are painful and need surgical attention. This webinar is designed to show participants how and why dental radiographs are so important to the veterinarian performing routine dentistry in a practice setting. What lies beneath? You will soon find out!

Dentistry composes a large part of daily small animal practice. Performing extractions is an important part of this. In this talk we will cover: Indications for tooth extraction, with some mention of possible alternatives Patient preparation, including positioning, analgesia and antibiotic use Armamentum and brief discussion of extraction technique Possible complications and how to avoid them.

This lecture will describe common conditions found within the oral cavity of dogs and cats. Brenda Mulherin will give a brief overview of periodontal disease, tooth trauma and tooth resorption in both dogs and cats.