735 Main Rd, Edgeworth,
NSW, 2285

Winston’s Case: Correcting
Malocclusion in a Growing Cat

A Subtle Sign, A Big Impact

Winston, a five-month-old domestic short-haired kitten, came into Edgeworth vet clinic for his desexing procedure. During his visit, our team noticed something subtle but significant. His lower jaw looked slightly short, and his adult canine teeth hadn’t erupted yet. Knowing how important timing is in bite development, especially for cat bite treatment, we kept a close watch.

Sure enough, as his canines began to erupt, they turned inward, putting painful pressure on the roof of his mouth.

Crown Extensions for a Healthy Bite

Winston had a class 2 malocclusion cat diagnosis, where the lower jaw is shorter than the upper. This caused his lower canine teeth to angle incorrectly, leading to trauma against the palate. We placed temporary crown extensions on his lower canines to correct the issue early and spare Winston future pain.

This technique gently redirected tooth alignment as his jaw closed, using a bright composite material that could be easily monitored and removed.

Calm Recovery, Strong Results

Winston adapted beautifully over four weeks. He was fed soft food, showed no signs of discomfort, and tolerated the extensions without fuss.

The results were exactly what we aimed for: redirected canine teeth, elimination of palatal trauma, and preservation of his natural bite, without extraction or invasive surgery.

Thoughtful Dentistry, Lifelong Impact

Early intervention meant Winston avoided chronic pain and protected his ability to eat, groom, and play normally. This case shows the power of proactive cat bite treatment, and how small, strategic procedures can have a big impact. At Edgeworth vet clinic, we’re proud to offer gentle, forward-thinking care for growing cats and kittens. Contact us today, to learn more.

“Spotting a developing dental issue early allowed us to act quickly, prevent trauma, and give Winston a happier, healthier start.”

— Dr Nicole Melhem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is malocclusion in cats, and why does it matter?

Malocclusion refers to misalignment of the teeth or jaws. In Winston’s case, his lower jaw was shorter than the upper, causing his lower canines to press into the roof of his mouth. Without early cat bite treatment, this could have caused chronic pain, palate trauma, or infections.

How is malocclusion in cats diagnosed?

Treatment depends on severity. In Winston’s case, we used crown extension therapy, a non-invasive cat bite treatment that gently guided his teeth into better alignment. Other cases may require orthodontic devices or extractions, all offered at Edgeworth vet clinic.

What is the treatment for a cat with malocclusion?

Treatment depends on severity. In Winston’s case, we used crown extension therapy, a non-invasive cat bite treatment that gently guided his teeth into better alignment. Other cases may require orthodontic devices or extractions, all offered at Edgeworth vet clinic.

Is crown extension therapy painful for cats?

Not at all. It’s a gentle, low-stress option for cat bite treatment using safe composite material. Most cats, including Winston, recover quickly with soft food and minimal disruption, especially under expert care like that provided at Edgeworth vet clinic.