Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions

Typical Signalment

• There are no sex or breed predispositions
• Becomes more prevalent with increasing age

Description

Feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORLs) are the most commonly seen dental lesions in cats. On examination, there is a loss of dental tissue on the crown or at the neck of the teeth. The crown may be completely resorbed with the remaining root covered with gingiva.

The aetiology and pathogenesis of FORLs has not yet been demonstrated but is almost certainly multifactorial. Possible hypotheses that have been suggested include:

• Diet texture
• Abnormal calcium regulation
• Hypervitaminosis A
• Mechanical stress
• Anatomical abnormalities of the teeth
• Viral infection
• Plaque bacteria and periodontal disease

Diagnosis

Clinical Signs

• Pain on contact
• Anorexia
• Drooling
• Lethargy

Oral Examination

Visual Examination - identification of the lesions or inflammed gingiva that overlies the remaining root.

Probe - lesions that are subgingival may be identified using a dental probe.

Diagnostic Imaging

Radiographic signs of FORLs include:

• Erosion of alveolar bone at the cementoenamel junction
• Root resorption
• Root ankylosis and subsequent periodontal space loss
• Resorption of the dental dental crown

References

• Tutt, C., Deeprose, J. and Crossley, D. (2007) BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Dentistry (3rd Edition) BSAVA

• Merck & Co (2008) The Merck Veterinary Manual