E Q U I N E D E N T I S T RY — A N I N T R O D U C T I O N
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severely compromise the overall health of the equine patient and cause chronic pain and discomfort, if untreated
it will lead to the premature loss of affected teeth due to irreversible damage to the periodontal support
structures.
Periapical disease of equine cheek teeth is another common yet poorly diagnosed condition; causes of
periapical disease include fracture of the tooth leading to exposure of the vital pulp and a septic pulpitis. Trauma
or thermal damage to the pulp from incorrect use of power equipment, bacterial infection from endodontic
lesions or progression of periodontal disease.
Other diagnostic tools and procedures
Like dentistry in other species plain and contrast radiography are extremely useful tools available to most
practitioners, some thought is required when taking radiographs regarding positioning to avoid superimposition
but this is easily overcome with practice. Other procedures are available such as trephination of sinuses and
endoscopic examination, these can be combined with bacterial culture where indicated. Also consider referral
of cases where equipment or skill level prohibits further investigation
Radiography can be used to confirm fractures of teeth and bone, apical involvement of infection, damage to
periodontal structures, presence of fluid in sinus cavities etc.
Summary
Like all aspects of veterinary science successful diagnosis relies upon up to date training equipment and
techniques. Equine dentistry is a field that has been too long ignored by the ma