Dental Radiographs

Dental X-rays (also called radiographs) in dogs and cats are similar to those taken in humans. An X-ray machine uses small amounts of radiation to see the inside of your pet’s teeth and areas below the gum line that are hidden from view. Unlike humans, pets must be under general anesthesia for dental X-rays. Pets cannot tell us when their teeth are diseased and some pets never show that they are in pain, even if they are. In many cases, X-rays are the only way your veterinarian can know that your pet has a serious dental problem. All pets need an oral examination under anesthesia whenever there are missing, discolored, or broken teeth, swollen and inflamed gums, oral growths, or bad breath. Even without any of these signs, pets should have their mouths X-rayed at least once every year.