Oral Examination in the Field

Oral examination is essential for the accurate diagnosis of dental and oral pathology. Initial assessment of information from the owner such as reason for examination, riding history, eating history, dental care history and clinical signs will give an initial idea of the type and degree of examination required. Distant observation of the horse is useful to assess signs such as dropped food, nasal discharge and faecal output. It is important not to overlook nondental diagnoses when examining the patient.

Clinical examination should begin with assessment of the horse in general, condition score and lymph node enlargement are particularly important. With basic oral examination in a well behaved horse sedation is rarely necessary. However, where the temperament of the horse or clinical signs indicate a more detailed examination, sedation should be used. Cardiac auscultation should be performed prior to administering sedatives.

Oral examination begins with assessment of the external head looking for facial symmetry, swellings, nasal discharge, lymph node enlargement and masseter muscle condition. Oral or nasal malodour may also be detected. [...]