Caries (Cavities)

Caries (“Cavities”)

Dental caries (“cavities”) are very common in people but have a comparatively lower prevalence in dogs (it is seen in ~5% of dogs). This could be due to the shape of a dog’s teeth compared to human teeth. The most common teeth affected by caries in dogs are the teeth that are most similar to our teeth (flat molar teeth with an occlusal surface). Treatment options depend on how advanced the caries lesion is and range from restorations (“fillings”) or root canal therapy to extraction of the affected tooth.

Referral for Carious Debridement and Composite Restoration if no pulp is involved (may not know this until radiograph &/or start debriding).