Jaw Fractures
Oral surgeons repair a large variety of maxillofacial fractures (fractures of the jaws, nose, and facial bones, collectively). There is a large variety of repair techniques available for fracture stabilization. The bones of the face vary widely in shape, size, curvature, and density in dogs and cats, and we often find multiple fractures in one…
Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma (POF)
Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma (POF) is a very common oral tumor in dogs. POF was previously known as a type of epulis, with “epulis” being an outdated umbrella term for a gingival (gum) mass. These tumors arise from the ligament which holds the tooth into the socket. They are slow growing and non-metastatic (they don’t spread…
Canine Oral Melanoma (OM)
Melanoma is the most common oral malignancy in dogs. Surgical removal is the most effective treatment and is often combined with radiation and/or immunotherapy. Despite treatment for this aggressive cancer, many dogs sadly succumb to distant metastasis. Survival time is related to presence of gross (visible) disease at diagnosis, size of tumor, clinical stage, the…
Feline Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
SCC is the most common oral tumors we see in cats. It often presents as a rapidly growing pink fleshy mass associated with the gingiva (gums), oral mucosa, or tongue. SCC characteristically invades bone and has often caused a large amount of bone destruction by the time it is diagnosed. Alternatively, we also commonly find…
Canine Acanthomatous Ameloblastoma (CAA)
CAA is a tumor that we commonly encounter in our canine patients. This tumor was previously known as an “acanthomatous epulis“, with “epulis” being an outdated and non-specific term simply meaning “growth on the gingiva (gums).” Recent in-depth studies of gingival masses have provided more accurate definitions of “epulis” tumors such as CAA. A pathologist…
Signs of Oral Tumors
Opening statement for Oral Tumors: Oral tumors constitute about 6% of the overall incidence of cancer in dogs and cats. Early detection is vital to the successful treatment of oral tumors. This is why regular oral examinations are so important, especially as your dog or cat ages. Signs of Oral Tumors: Unfortunately, you are unlikely…
Minion
Dr. Raleigh and his team took exceptional care of our Boxer! From the very first phone call, I was greeted with nothing but professionalism, kindness and compassion! Everyone I talked to from start to finish was patient with me, willing to answer any of my questions and eager to ease any of my concerns. Our…
Malocclusions (misaligned teeth)
Definition The term “malocclusion” refers to any abnormal alignment of the upper and lower teeth. Teeth are organized in a very specific pattern and, in normal occlusion, they achieve the ideal goal of a comfortable and functional bite. When we treat a malocclusion, our primary goal is always the same- restoration of a comfortable and…