Veterinary dentistry

Branch of veterinary medicine

Dog undergoing dental treatment
Dog with periodontal disease
A canine with gingivitis
English bulldog with underbite

Veterinary dentistry involves the application of dental care to animals, encompassing not only the prevention of diseases and maladies of the mouth, but also considers treatment. In the United States, veterinary dentistry is one of 20 veterinary specialties recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association.[1]

Among other services, veterinary dentists perform endodontics, oral radiographs, and cosmetic and medically indicated surgeries. They address various conditions such as jaw fractures, malocclusions of the teeth, oral cancer, periodontal disease, and unique veterinary conditions like feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions.

Additionally, some animals have specialized dental workers like equine dental technicians, who perform routine dental work on horses.

Oral disease

Periodontal disease

Consequences of periodontal disease

Gingivitis

Signs and symptoms of oral disease

The main signs of oral disease include :

  • Halitosis
  • Broken or discoloured teeth
  • Changes in eating behaviour
  • Rubbing or pawing at the face
  • Ptyalism
  • Bleeding from the mouth
  • Inability or unwillingness to open or close the mouth
  • Change in temperament
  • Morbidity
  • Weight loss

Diagnosis

Radiography

Oral abnormalities, anomalies, and defects

Malocclusions

Class I malocclusion (MAL/1)

Class II malocclusion (MAL/2)

Class III malocclusion (MAL/3)

Other malocclusions

Oral lesions and masses

Malignant tumors

Nonmalignant tumors

Resorptive lesions

Developmental conditions

Dental cleaning

Dental instruments

Hand instruments

Power instruments

Dental charting

See also

References

  1. ^ "Veterinary Specialty Organizations". Archived from the original on May 1, 2006. Retrieved August 20, 2006.

External links

Organizations:

  • Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians
  • Academy of Veterinary Dentistry
  • American Society of Veterinary Dental Technicians
  • American Veterinary Dental College
  • American Veterinary Dental Society
  • British Veterinary Dental Association
  • European Veterinary Dental College
  • European Veterinary Dental Society
  • Veterinary Oral Health Council
  • WikiVet Dentistry

Guidelines:

  • AAHA-AVMA canine preventive healthcare guidelines
  • AAHA-AVMA feline preventive healthcare guidelines