Q:What examinations are needed to understand the oral health condition of animals?
A:In addition to visual inspection, auscultation, and palpation during consultations (checking for calculus, loose or fractured teeth, oral odor, etc.), the most crucial examinations include periodontal probing (examining periodontal pocket depths around teeth) and full-mouth dental X-rays (examining the alveolar bone, dental pulp, and other parts not visible to the naked eye). These tests are essential for a comprehensive understanding of your animal's oral health.
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The cat in the attached picture was photographed during my vacation in New Jersey while I was at Penn. As a veterinarian, I'm accustomed to animals not liking to come close to me (is it self-deprecating?). However, this relaxed cat from a nearby resident voluntarily approached me and rubbed against me while I was capturing the beautiful scenery at the pier, even flipping over to let me pet its belly.
This complete trust deeply moved me, and I sincerely hope that future doctor-patient relationships in Taiwan can be as pure and open.