mobile-logo
 

Oral Cancer & Masses

Oral tumor in a dog

Surgical site following removal of the oral tumor

Oral Cancer in Pets: Diagnosis & Treatment at Pet Dental Center

Oral cancers are relatively common in both dogs and cats, and their severity can vary widely. Some oral tumors are benign, requiring minimal intervention, while others can be highly aggressive, spreading rapidly with limited treatment options. The key to successful management is early detection, accurate diagnosis, and an individualized treatment plan.

Understanding Oral Cancer in Pets

Oral tumors in pets can arise from various tissues within the mouth, including the gums, tongue, jawbone, and soft tissues. Some of the most common types of oral cancers in dogs and cats include:

Malignant Melanoma – One of the most aggressive oral cancers in dogs, prone to rapid metastasis (spreading) to the lungs and lymph nodes.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – The most common oral cancer in cats and the second most common in dogs; it tends to invade locally but spreads less frequently.
Fibrosarcoma – A cancerous tumor that invades deep tissues but typically spreads slowly.
Epulides & Other Benign Tumors – Non-cancerous oral growths that may still require surgical removal if they interfere with oral function.

Early detection is critical, as many oral tumors can be difficult to treat once they advance. If you notice any of the following signs, a veterinary evaluation is essential:

🚨 Persistent bad breath
🚨 Excessive drooling or difficulty eating
🚨 Swelling or masses in the mouth
🚨 Bleeding from the gums or oral cavity
🚨 Loose teeth not related to dental disease
🚨 Facial asymmetry or swelling

Accurate Diagnosis: The First Step to Effective Treatment

Proper treatment begins with a definitive diagnosis. At Pet Dental Center, our experienced veterinary dental specialists collaborate with veterinary oral pathologists to ensure accurate identification of all suspected oral lesions. Diagnosis typically involves:

A thorough oral examination – Performed under sedation or anesthesia for a complete evaluation.
Dental radiographs (X-rays) and CBCT scans – Providing detailed imaging to assess bone involvement and tumor extent.
Biopsy & Histopathology – A small tissue sample is collected and analyzed by an oral pathologist to determine tumor type and behavior.

A precise diagnosis allows us to determine the best course of action and develop a personalized treatment plan for your pet.

Treatment Options for Oral Tumors

Once an oral cancer diagnosis is confirmed, treatment recommendations will depend on the type, size, and location of the tumor. Possible treatment options include:

Surgical Excision – Our doctors have specialized training in oral surgery and utilize state-of-the-art techniques to remove tumors with minimal invasiveness, reducing complications, preserving aesthetics, and maintaining oral function as much as possible.
Oncologic Referral – In cases where surgery is not possible or additional therapy is required, we may recommend referral to a veterinary oncologist for treatments such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.
Palliative Care – For aggressive cancers where curative treatment is not an option, we focus on pain management and quality of life to keep your pet comfortable.

Our team is committed to guiding pet parents through every step of the process, providing clear information and compassionate care tailored to your pet’s specific needs.

Why Choose Pet Dental Center for Oral Cancer Treatment?

Expertise in Oral Surgery – Our doctors have advanced training in minimally invasive tumor excision to improve outcomes and recovery.
Collaborative Approach – We work with veterinary oral pathologists and oncologists to ensure the best possible diagnosis and treatment plan.
State-of-the-Art Equipment – We utilize high-resolution imaging (CBCT scans, digital X-rays) and precision surgical tools for the best results.

If your pet has been diagnosed with an oral tumor or abnormal growth, early intervention is key. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let our expert team help guide you through your pet’s treatment options.

Pet Dental Center

EMAIL

Contact@petdental.center


VISIT OR CALL

Pet Dental Center

9250 Corkscrew Rd.
Suite 18
Estero, FL 33928

(239) 888-6761

HOURS OF OPERATION

8:00am-6:00pm M–Thurs
9:00am-4:30pm on Friday
CLOSED Saturday
CLOSED Sunday

Commonly Asked Questions

Does My Pet Need A Dental Cleaning?

Dental cleanings should be recommended based on each individual pet’s level of plaque and calculus build up and gingivitis. For some pets, cleanings may be necessary every 6 months, for others it could be every couple of years. More importantly, pets need to have routine oral evaluations with dental probing and full mouth dental radiographs no less than every 2 years and in some pets every 6 months. This includes pets who may have minimal plaque, calculus or gingivitis. It must be understood that clean teeth are not always healthy and therefore could be causing you pet pain or discomfort.

My Dog Has Bad Breath.

Bad breath is the number one symptom of advanced dental disease in pets. In most cases, bad breath in pets originates from disease causing bacteria. When pathogenic bacteria begin to flourish in the mouth, bad breath develops. It is important to have your pet’s oral health fully assessed with thorough oral examination and dental radiographs as soon as bad breath is noticed to prevent severe infections and tooth loss. These bacteria can also negatively affect other parts of the body and contribute to cardiac or renal disease.

My Pet Has Increased Risks For Anesthesia, How Can They Get The Dental Care They Need?

It is not fair to make a pet live with chronic dental pain and infection because they are considered an increased risk for anesthesia. At Pet Dental Center, we specialize in providing high level anesthesia care for geriatric pets and those with increased risks such as heart, kidney, liver, neurologic, diabetes and Cushing’s diseases. Because of our reputation for providing the highest level of anesthesia care possible, we average treating one high risk patient each day. Trust your pet with the ones who perform the most anesthesia procedures in high risk patients, Pet Dental Center.

Is It Normal For My Pet’s Teeth To Fall Out?

Baby or deciduous teeth are supposed to fall out when dogs and cats are teething, between 3 and 7 months of age. Adult or permanent teeth are present for the life of a dog and cat as long as they are healthy. If your pet is losing adult teeth there is severe dental disease. Advanced periodontal disease is the most likely cause for a pet losing teeth although dental fractures and tooth resorption are other likely causes.

What Kind Of Chews Are Good For My Pet’s Teeth?

Brushing your pet’s teeth is the best way to prevent dental disease at home and should be performed daily. When your pet does not accept brushing or for supplemental dental care in those pets who are getting their teeth brushed, dental chews can be a good choice. We recommend using dental chews that have the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval. This verifies that the product has been tested in clinical trials and was shown to significantly reduce plaque or calculus. We also recommend slowly introducing dental chews by offering a reduced amount of the chew and observing your pet while chewing. This is to make sure he or she does not swallow a large portion of the chew that could lead to choking or digestive complications. Hard chew objects such as bones, hooves, antlers, thick rawhide products and plastic toys often lead to dental fractures and should always be avoided.