Computed tomography examination of periodontal disease in dog

Abstract

Periodontal disease is a very common disease in dogs, with an incidence of 85%, which affects both the health and the quality of life of the animals (Shearer, 2010, Kortegaard et al 2014). Dog periodontitis has become a priority disease for both pet owners and practitioners. Taking in consideration the high incidence of the periodontal disease in dogs and the fact that the clinical diagnostic is limited, the aim of this study was to highlight the role and importance of imaging diagnostic tools such as Computed Tomography in the diagnostic of this pathology. The study was conducted on 20 dogs (30% female and 70% male) with age from 1 year to 12 years. The patients were clinically examined and after that were sedated and a radiographic evaluation and a CT scan of the head was performed. Classification of periodontal disease take in consideration the retraction of alveolar bone and formation of periodontal pocket, retraction of alveolar bone was visible on CT examination compared to radiographic examination in which the overlapping of bony structures of the mandible and maxilla make the bone retraction less evident. Computed tomography examination is more accurate than radiography, giving the possibility to evaluate all the roots of the teeth and bone retraction, and come to complete the clinical evaluation.