Results of a First Opinion Practice Prospective Study: How You Can Apply This to Your Dentistry

Introduction
The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of diastemata in horses found during routine dental examinations in a first opinion practice. Following an agreed protocol (Walker et al.2012) data was collected on the signalment of the affected horses, the location, shape and characteristics of diastemata and any possible associated conditions. Five veterinary surgeons participated in the data collection over the 12 month period of 2008–2009 in an equine practice in Northumberland.

Sedation was used in most cases to facilitate a thorough oral examination. The protocol also included the use of oral lavage, head light, dental mirror and a calibrated equine periodontal probe. Gingivitis was described as the presence of gross gingival inflammation adjacent to a diastema. Food lying in diastemata and the presence of adjacent periodontal pockets was recorded. Halitosis was assessed by pressing a gloved finger against the gingival margin of diastemata and then smelling it to detect malodour. These observations were compiled on a dental examination chart which related to the Triadan position and shape (valve or open) of individual diastemata. Statistical analysis of results is as reported in Walker et al. (2012). [...]