Dental radiographs are essentially a picture of the teeth taken with X-rays. These "pictures" allow us to see when there is greater than 30%-50% mineral density loss of tooth & bone surrounding the tooth. About 60% of the tooth is below the gum line, so radiographs are essential to a complete evaluation of the mouth.
As you may recall from your own dental care experiences, obtaining dental radiographs can be a somewhat uncomfortable experience. Unfortunately, we cannot acquire these images while our pets are awake due to the potential for discomfort and distress during the process. Additionally, getting a quality picture that is free of movement is key in our assessment.
Radiographs are necessary for
accurate evaluation & diagnosis of dental disease.
- In patients with no abnormal oral exam findings, dental radiographs revealed important dental disease in 42% of cats & 28% of dogs!
- In patients with abnormal oral exam findings,
dental radiographs revealed additional dental disease in 54% of cats & 50% of dogs!
It is important to note that dental radiography (e.g., radiographs or CT) is essentially a snapshot of the pet's current condition at a specific point in time and recheck imaging is beneficial whenever possible. In some cases, we will recommend repeat imaging in 2-6 months following the initial radiographic assessment to reevaluate the progression of disease &/or healing of bone & tooth structures.
The Iceberg-Tooth Analogy:
A tooth can be likened to an iceberg. Just as only a fraction of an iceberg can be seen above the waterline, the visible portion of the tooth (the crown) is only a portion of the tooth's structure. Crucial details are concealed below the gumline. Just as exploring beneath the waterline unveils the true scale and potential hazards of an iceberg, a dental radiograph reveals hidden issues such as bone loss, tooth resorption, or impacted teeth, aiding veterinarians in providing a comprehensive assessment. So, much like navigating through icy waters requires understanding both the visible and concealed aspects of an iceberg, a dental radiograph involves looking beneath the surface to uncover the complete dental health picture.
