Feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORLs) is a common dental disease that can lead to painful symptoms and tooth loss in cats. The condition occurs when the body breaks down and reabsorbs the substances that form the tooth.
Causes of Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions
FORLs is a progressive disorder that starts at the outer surface (enamel) of the tooth. Over time, the disease can spread to the inner layers of the tooth, exposing the pulp chamber with its sensitive nerves and blood vessels.
The specific cause of FORLs in an unknown, but it occurs when cells called odontoclasts to destroy the surface of the tooth root. Factors such as poor diet, inflammation, plaque buildup, autoimmune diseases, and other underlying health issues may contribute to the condition.
Symptoms of Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions
Please visit your veterinarian if your pet displays any of the following common signs and symptoms of FORLs.
- Oral pain
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Increased salivation
- Loss of appetite
- Behavioral changes
- Weight loss
- Tooth fractures
- Tooth loss
Diagnosis of Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions
Your veterinarian will ask you a series of questions about the onset and severity of your pet’s symptoms. They will then perform an oral examination to check for clinical signs of FORLs. Dental X-rays are the most effective diagnostic tool for confirming or ruling out the condition.
Treatment of Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions
Treatment of FORLs usually depends on the severity of damage to affected teeth. If your pet’s symptoms are mild, treatment may not always be necessary. However, since FORLs is a progressive disease, your veterinarian may recommend extraction of affected teeth. Following surgery, antibiotics will often be prescribed to prevent the development of infections. Please follow all treatment advice closely to aid your pet’s recovery.
Prevention of Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions
Since the underlying cause of FORLs is not fully understood, there is no reliable way to prevent the condition. The best way to minimize your pet’s risk of developing FORLs to schedule regular health checkups and dental examinations with your veterinarian.
