Equine Dental

Introduction

• Importance of radiographs in equine dental procedures.

• Case example of a horse with gemination leading to misdiagnosis during extraction.

Importance of Radiographs

• Radiographs help in diagnosing problems effectively.

• Vital for assessing tooth structures, adjacent anatomy, and extraction complexity.

• Helps identify unerupted teeth as in a case of an impacted canine tooth.

Radiograph Interpretation Tips

General Advice

• Radiographs can be difficult to interpret due to superimposition.

• Seek help from experienced practitioners if interpretations are challenging.

• Utilize history and signalment to guide expectations regarding dental issues.

Examination Techniques

• Compare abnormal findings with normal sides for clearer identification.

• Consider using devices to assist in keeping the horse's mouth open to reduce superimposition.

Anatomy of Equine Dental Structures

Lamina Dura and Periodontal Ligament

• Lamina dura is the dense cortical bone lining the alveolus.

• Variability in lamina dura visibility in horses compared to small animals.

• Periodontal ligament is a uniformly thin line surrounding the tooth root.

• Bone types relevant to periodontal disease include interproximal and interradicular bone.

Root Identification

• Maxillary premolars have three roots: mesiobuccal, distobuccal, and palatal.

• Challenges in identifying roots due to radiographic positioning.

Positioning Impacts on Radiographs

• Mandibular oblique views may foreshorten teeth, misrepresenting actual lengths.

• Lateral views give a better understanding of tooth size and root length.

• DV views improve visibility of mandibular teeth structure.

• Maxillary views are complicated by sinus superimposition.

Common Dental Pathologies on Radiographs

Reliable Radiographic Findings

• Periapical osteosclerosis indicates dense bone surrounding tooth apex.

• Root clubbing signifies tooth resorption, making extractions easier.

• Combined findings enhance diagnosis reliability.

Moderately Reliable Radiographic Findings

• Widening of the periodontal ligament indicates potential pathology.

• Infundibular caries characterized by crescent moon radiolucencies.

• Osteitis may present with a moth-eaten appearance in bone.

Additional Findings

• Cementomas signify chronic inflammation and require removal during extractions.

• Identifying fractures, especially through pulp horns, is crucial for managing endodontic infections.

Pathologies in Young and Old Horses

Age-Related Changes

• Young horses' teeth are fragile and may crumble during extraction.

• Adult horses' teeth may become harder to extract due to ankylois and structural changes.

Structural Integrity Considerations

• Assessing caries and fractures is critical to understanding extraction complexity.

• Understanding infundibular structure helps anticipate potential complications during extractions.

Endodontic Infections and Their Management

• Dental issues such as fractures, infundibular caries, and periodontal disease can lead to endodontic infections.

• Treatment approaches include extraction and managing the consequences of tooth loss on oral health.

• Recognizing systemic health concerns is essential prior to any dental procedures.

Conclusion

• Knowledge of normal dental anatomy is essential in diagnosing and treating equine dental diseases.

• The presence of various dental pathologies may require tailored extraction approaches and management plans.