Dental issues-- "tip fracture?"

[Nan & Amber (GA)]

Hello all!

Has anyone here had a cat with a "tip fracture" on a tooth that either did or didn't turn out to be a big problem for them?

Longer story: last week I brought my Amber in for a dental cleaning. In large part, this was in hopes that some hidden problem would prove to be the cause of her sudden drop out of remission this winter, and doing the dental would set her on the path back.

The vet couldn't find any major problems, so she just did the regular cleaning and sent her on her way, but she did mention that she had one tooth with a tip fracture. Since the fracture didn't seem to be in a location that should be causing her any pain or discomfort, the vet just left the tooth in place.

I trust this vet's judgment, but under the circumstances (Amber is 16; not sure how many more dentals I want to put her through and, again, this was an attempt to fix anything and everything that might have dropped her out of remission) I kind of wish now she'd treated the tooth while she had her in there.

Anyone had experience with anything like this? What do you think?

 

[Noah & me (GA)]

I've had a few chipped canines in my life that were left alone. If the root isn't exposed and there are no sharp edges I would leave it be. The alternative is another round of anesthesia, the pain, antibiotics, whacky numbers and of course half a mortgage payment.
Is it a canine? I can't imagine any of the other teeth having this issue because they're so small.

 

[Nan & Amber (GA)]

Yep, canine. And, you're right, they assessed (via x-ray) that the pulp was not exposed, and thus shouldn't be causing a problem. Plus, she's already missing a canine, so I imagine they were extra-cautious about removing any more.

Like I said, I trust this vet's judgement, I'm just kind of grasping at straws here because I am out of ideas as to what has caused Amber to drop out of remission. It really seems like there must be something that is bothering her and spiking her numbers, I just wish I could figure out what it is!

 

[Noah & me (GA)]

You already know what to watch for dental wise. Maybe get your hand in there periodically and touch the tooth, see if it's loose or she winces.
No mice = no need for canines. Lots of mice in my garage but this bunch would sit and watch. I've never had a kitty go into or out of remission. Best of luck.