|
|
Discussion on Research Study: Long term effect of cheek tooth removal
|
| Author |
Message |
Moderator:
DrO
|
Posted on Wednesday, Dec 3, 2008 - 11:35 am:
Here is an important study that looks at the long term effects of removal of a cheek tooth. The chief changes are overgrowth of the opposing cheek tooth and the surrounding teeth tend to move into the space over time. However somewhat surprising is this did not result in increased diastemata (spaces that collect food). It is expected though not proven that the overgrowth will need occasional correction to keep the horse chewing well.
DrO
Vet J. 2008 Nov 17;
Evaluation of the long-term oral consequences of equine exodontia in 50 horses.
Townsend NB, Dixon PM, Barakzai SZ.
Division of Veterinary Clinical Science, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Veterinary Centre, Easter Bush, Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, EH25 9RG, UK.
The aims of this study were to objectively evaluate and quantify the process of post-extraction cheek teeth (CT) dental drift in horses, and to report on associated disorders of CT wear and long-term periodontal health. Fifty horses that had CT oral extraction because of apical infection were prospectively re-examined and a full oral examination, including measurements of some dental parameters, was performed. Narrowing of the extraction space was noted in all cases with complete closure occurring in 18% of horses. The rate of dental drift was calculated as 15.7% of extraction space/year (range 4-50%) and was not associated with the age at extraction (P=0.78) or frequency of dental care since extraction (P=0.48). There was a significant negative relationship between the rate of dental drift and the duration of time since extraction (P=0.008). Overgrowths were present on the opposite CT row in 98% of horses, including opposite the extracted CT and on the Triadan 06s and 11s. No significant difference was noted in either the number of diastemata (P=0.9) or periodontal disease score (P=0.8) between the extraction and the contralateral cheek tooth rows.
|
|
|
