Dental x-rays are as important for pets as for people when it comes to maintaining healthy mouths. In fact, x-rays are so helpful that many veterinarians recommend them every time pets have dental exams and cleanings.

X-rays can uncover problems under your kitty’s gum line or inside your pooch’s teeth. They can also guide the way to the best form of treatment. For example, an x-ray showing a root abscess can confirm the need for a tooth extraction. X-rays can also visually explain why some teeth are missing and if others are going to grow in.

Dental x-rays help your veterinarian monitor the progress of disease or treatment. They can show whether a tooth has been extracted completely or document the stages of a root canal. Finally, x-rays provide a record for you to see if your four-legged buddy’s bite is worse than his bark.