Download Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions

Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions
(Feline resorptive disease)
Feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORL) are the most common dental
lesions present in the cat. This disease process involves resorption of the enamel (outer
tooth layer) of the teeth and progresses to resorption of the dentin (softer layer of the
teeth under the enamel) and exposure of the pulp (the sensitive part of the tooth). The
lesions can start at the root (often in canine teeth) or the crown (visible portion) of the
teeth involved. Cats with these lesions can show pain when the teeth are touched, and if
many teeth are affected, increased salivation and excessive lip rubbing may be observed.
Their appetite may decrease along with their activity level due to the oral pain they are
experiencing. The cause of FORL seems to involve many factors. For example, diets
high in calcium and low in phosphorus have been shown to increase the incidence of
FORL. Viral diseases may also be involved by increasing the amount of oral
inflammation present. Cats that vomit more have been shown to have more FORL
lesions due to the effect of stomach acids on the enamel. Most cats who present with
lesions consistent with FORL also have periodontal disease (disease of the teeth and
surrounding structures from the buildup of plaque and bacteria). The periodontal disease
causes inflammation of the oral tissues, and in cats, it appears the tooth is more readily
absorbed than the surrounding bone as in other species. This is why yearly oral exams,
teeth cleaning, and good home oral care are so important to slow the progression of
FORL. The only effective treatment at this time is extraction of all affected teeth.