References
Fractured teeth in equids
Abstract
Dental fractures are common in equids; in some cases, they result in no apparent clinical problems, while in others they can lead to endodontic infection resulting in clinical sequelae. Causes of dental fractures are not always easy to elucidate, but can include external trauma, structural weakening because of endodontic or infundibular disease, iatrogenic and idiopathic causes. Appropriate management of fractured teeth is reliant on a good understanding of dental anatomy and physiology. Investigation should include determining which parts of the tooth are involved in the fracture, how the body has responded to the dental insult as well as the age of the animal and the chronicity of the fracture. Treatment options include endodontic procedures (both vital and non-vital), restorative therapies, tooth extraction and careful proactive monitoring.
Dental fractures of both incisors and cheek teeth are relatively common in equids (Pollaris et al, 2020). This article looks at the anatomy of equid teeth, the pathophysiology of dental fractures and their investigation and management.
External trauma is often suspected or observed for incisor fractures (Figure 1) but is less commonly the cause of cheek teeth fractures. The normal high masticatory forces (up to 1758N recorded in one study (Staszyk et al, 2006)) may result in primary fracture of healthy cheek teeth in some instances, but more commonly pre-existing underlying dental abnormalities such as infundibular caries, pulp disease or occlusal fissure lines (Pollaris et al, 2020) can lead to secondary fractures.
Fractures which communicate with the endodontic (vital) structures of the tooth have the potential to result in endodontic infection or inflammation, are termed ‘complicated’ while others are termed ‘uncomplicated’. Knowledge of equid dental anatomy is important to help determine which type of fracture has occurred and the likelihood of endodontic involvement.
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