Panorama Pet Hospital now offers DNA health screening for your dog. With greater than 99% accuracy, our new DNA tests screen for more than 230 genetic health conditions and unlocks breed ancestry, which can inform health care.

With just one cheek swab, your veterinarian can learn actionable insights and create a personalized care plan for your dog. Together, we can be proactive and improve your dog's health! Contact us at (818) 786-4300 to take the next step in providing for your dog's wellness and schedule a DNA test.

June Newsletter: How X-Rays Can Help Detect Early Stages of Dental Diseases

Cat opens mouth wide for the dentist.

Could Your Pet Have an Aching Tooth? X-rays Detect Early Stages of Dental Diseases

Wouldn't it be nice if your pet could talk? In addition to sharing his preferences for long walks and never-ending belly rubs, your furry friend just might complain about throbbing tooth pain. Unfortunately, dental issues aren't always obvious until your pet is in pain. When you schedule annual dental exams and x-rays with your veterinarian, you'll ensure that your pet never suffers unnecessarily from dental issues.

Why Your Pet Needs Dental X-rays

Your pet's dental problem may not be readily apparent, particularly when the issue first starts. Dental X-rays give your veterinarian a view of the interior of teeth and roots, in addition to providing information on the health of your pet's gums and jawbone.

X-rays use low-level radiation to produce images of bones and soft tissues. Since bones and teeth absorb the most radiation, these structures look white on X-rays, while soft tissues appear gray. A dark spot on the X-ray could mean that your pet's teeth or gums are affected by decay, infection or another dental problem. X-rays offer an important way to spot signs of trouble before they cause painful problems for your furry friend.

Pets must stay perfectly still during an X-ray or the image will be blurry and hard to read. As remaining still is difficult for many animals, your veterinarian will give your dog, cat, rabbit, guinea pig, or other pet anesthesia or a sedative before taking X-rays. Anesthesia ensures that your pet remains safe and comfortable during the dental examination, X-rays, and dental cleaning.

X-rays Detect These Types of Dental Problems

X-rays help veterinarians spot many dental issues, including:

  • Gum Disease. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is caused by the buildup of plaque, tartar, and bacteria on your pet's teeth. Plaque, a clear, sticky film turns into hard, brown tartar in a matter of days if it isn't removed. These substances irritate the gums and cause painful infections that can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease isn't just a dental concern. If the disease isn't treated promptly, bacteria can spread from the mouth to the heart, brain, kidneys, and other organs. According to Today's Veterinary Practice, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have periodontal disease by the time they're 2 years old. X-rays show if the disease has begun to destroy the bone that holds the teeth in place.
  • Tooth Resorption. Tooth resorption occurs when a tooth begins to break down and is absorbed by your pet's body. According to Cornell Feline Health Center, 30 to 70 percent of cats show some degree of resorption. Since the process starts inside the tooth, you may not notice a change in a tooth until it's too late to save it. Dental X-rays help your veterinarian diagnose the problem early and offer treatments that will stop or slow the damage and reduce your pet's risk for tooth loss.
  • Fractures. X-rays make it possible to spot fractures in the crowns (tops) of teeth or the roots. Your pet's veterinarian uses X-rays to determine how far the fracture extends. If it reaches the root, the tooth may need to be removed.
  • Infections. Just like people, animals can develop bacterial infections in their teeth or gums. X-rays help confirm the presence of infections and ensure that your pet receives prompt treatment. Your pet's veterinarian will also look for damage to nearby bones, teeth, or tissues due to the infection.
  • Impacted Teeth. Teeth need a clear path when they erupt, or emerge, from the gums. If bones or tissues prevent a tooth from erupting, the tooth is considered impacted. Impacted teeth may damage the jawbone or cause pain, infections, or cysts. If a dental X-ray shows an impacted tooth, it will need to be removed.
  • Tumors. X-rays also help veterinarians spot tumors in your pet's mouth or jaw. Growing tumors can cause considerable damage to teeth, bones, and soft tissues. Removing tumors and growths as soon as possible will help limit the damage to your pet's mouth. Although tumors can be cancerous, many are benign (non-cancerous).

Does your pet need a dental exam and x-rays? Contact our office to schedule your companion's visit.

Sources:

Today's Veterinary Practice: Periodontal Disease: Utilizing Current Information to Improve Client Compliance, 3/1/2012

https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/dentistry/practical-dentistry-periodontal-disease-utilizing-current-information-to-improve-client-compliance/

University of Michigan School of Dentistry: Dental X-Rays

https://www.dent.umich.edu/patient-care/dental-x-rays

American Veterinary Medical Association: Pet Dental Care

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/pet-dental-care

American Animal Hospital Association: 10 Facts You Need to Know to Protect Your Pet’s Oral (and Overall) Health

https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/pet-owner-education/aaha-guidelines-for-pet-owners/dental-care/

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Periodontal Disease

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/periodontal-disease

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Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

  • "I have nothing but good things to say about Panorama Pet Hospitals Dr. and staff. Took my dog in for a dental exam and Dr. Suman addressed the problem immediately. Dr. Suman and the veterinary assistant were so gentle with my dog and made him feel very comfortable. I ended up booking a deep cleaning and I could not have been happier. Dr. Suman took great care of my dog and got his teeth cleaned. All I can say is if you want a trust worthy doctor and a kind staff head over to Panorama Pet Hospital you wont regret it! Thank you again Dr. Suman and staff!"
    Tanya D.
  • "I was contemplating coming here due to the distance. Since I was extremely unhappy with our previous vet. I took the hour's drive. Needless to say, was one of the best decisions I made in my dog's life. Our initial visit was let me just say first impressions go a long way. Dr. Prabhakar showed great concern immediately about my dog Molly's condition. I have worked closely with doctors throughout my career and I have a good intuition on whether a doctor genuinely cares about their patients and Dr. Prabhakar does. A lot of Doctors just prescribe medication. Without determining the underlying problem. When I leave all my questions and concerns are answered. The staff there are so nice and friendly. Tammy is the best! No matter how busy she is she takes the time to stop and listen to me and answers my questions. Definitely worth the drive. I wouldn't go anywhere else."
    Sabrina M.
  • "Came across Doctor Suman after looking for a vet to perform surgery on my kitty leg ! I went to 5 different
    opinions until I found this Doctor! He explained everything in detail and told me exactly how the work would be
    done, I felt so comfortable! He did a fantastic job! Thank You Doctor Suman and Staff! My dog needed the same
    surgery and Doctor Suman was there again performing his magic! He truly cares and has love for every animal
    that comes through his door! The entire staff is full of love and caring hearts!"
    Susie M.
  • "I love this vet so much. Dr. Suman is so smart and kind. Everyone here is very accommodating and whenever
    I've come in stressed and worried for my pet, they are so comforting. It is always a quick and easy experience
    and one of the less expensive vets. Thank you for all your help!"
    Amber F.
  • "This wonderful office squeezed an appt in for my cat's urinary tract infection. They were kind and considerate,
    and accepted Care Credit. Since I lost my teaching job during Covid, the doctor was very compassionate and
    affordable. Thank you, Dr. Prabhakar!"
    Elizabeth F.
  • "Dr. Suman really cares for his patients. Personally even does follow ups and calls to check on how his patients
    are. He respects the pet parents and understands that life us difficult- he presents the real scenario and issue and what needs to happen but also presents options on how to go about the situation if needed."
    Cris Q.
  • "Dr. Suman is the best Veterinarian. I brought my dog in extremely ill suffering from ITP. He was able to place her
    on the right medication to control her illness. The way he demonstrated care, nurture, compassion and
    responded quickly was the best care my fur baby could have received. Thank you Dr. Suman and the whole."
    Erika G.
  • "I've been bringing my cats to dr. Suman for many years now. I find him to be caring and a great vet. They've
    got a wonderful new addition to the team in Dr. Gupta. She is helping me with my cat Joey who has dental
    issues. I feel very confident with her. The ladies in the front office are very nice too."
    Susan M.