Care & Management: Dental Health Recognition in Common Animal Species

Crown

The part of the tooth above the gumline; healthy crowns have intact surfaces appropriate for the species.

Root

The portion of the tooth anchored within the jaw; issues often show indirectly through swelling or pain.

Enamel

The hardest outer covering of the crown, which does not regenerate once lost.

Dentin

The main body of the tooth beneath the enamel, more sensitive than enamel.

Pulp

The living center of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels.

Cementum

Mineralized covering of the root that anchors the tooth to the periodontal ligament.

Periodontal ligament (PDL)

Fibrous tissue that attaches the tooth to the bone; damage here leads to loosening.

Gingiva (gums)

Soft tissue that surrounds the tooth; healthy gums are pink, firm, and not bleeding.

Alveolar bone

Jaw bone surrounding the tooth sockets; bone loss indicates advanced periodontal disease.

Brachydont teeth

Low-crowned teeth that do not continuously erupt, common in dogs, cats, and pigs.

Hypsodont teeth

High-crowned teeth designed for heavy wear, common in horses and some herbivores.

Elodont teeth

Continuously growing teeth seen in rabbits and rodents, requiring correct alignment and abrasion.

Dental formula

A notation showing the number of each tooth type on one side of the mouth.

Occlusion

The alignment of upper and lower teeth when the mouth closes; varies by species.

Gingivitis

Inflammation of the gums, often reversible; different from periodontitis.

Periodontitis

Inflammation deeper than gingivitis, leading to attachment loss and bone resorption.

Dental caries

Cavities caused by bacterial demineralization of tooth tissue, different from wear.

Tooth wear

Mechanical loss of tooth surface from chewing and abrasion, can be normal in herbivores.

Malocclusion

Abnormal alignment of teeth when jaws close, leading to uneven wear and potential overgrowth.

Tooth root abscess

An infection around the root, often requiring veterinary care.

Retained deciduous teeth

Baby teeth that don't shed, leading to potential malocclusion and periodontal disease.

Feline tooth resorption

A condition in cats where tooth structure is progressively lost, painful and requires treatment.

Periodontal disease

Disease affecting tooth-supporting structures, starting with plaque and potentially leading to tooth loss.

Facial swelling

A potential sign of tooth root infection; warrants immediate veterinary attention.

Halitosis

Foul breath, often a sign of dental disease or infection.

Quidding

Dropping partially chewed feed; often indicates cheek-tooth pain.

Excess salivation

Can indicate dental pain; often accompanied by other signs like weight loss.