Prevalence of odontoclastic resorption lesions and periapical radiographic lucencies in cats: 265 cases (1995-1998)

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether odontoclastic resorption lesions were associated with radiographic evidence of periapical lucencies in cats. DESIGN: Retrospective study. ANIMALS: 265 feline dental patients. PROCEDURE: Full-mouth radiographs were examined for evidence of odontoclastic resorption lesions, periapical lucencies, periodontitis, and fractured teeth. RESULTS: Odontoclastic resorption lesions affecting 567 teeth were identified in 161 (60.8%) cats. Periapical lucencies were identified in 53 teeth in 35 cats. Periapical lucencies were most commonly associated with fractured teeth (25 teeth with periapical lucencies) and severe periodontitis (21 teeth). None of the periapical lucencies appeared to be specifically associated with resorption lesions. Prevalence of periapical lucencies in cats with resorption lesions was not significantly different from prevalence in cats without. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggest that although odontoclastic resorption lesions are common in cats, pulpal involvement associated with these lesions does not appear to be associated with development of radiographically detectable periapical lucencies. Crown amputation with intentional root retention may, therefore, be a suitable alternative to extraction in selected cats with odontoclastic resorption lesions.