Equine Dentistry in Ambulatory Practice (From Routine Procedures to the Moment of Referral)

Equine dentistry in ambulatory practice (from routine procedures to the moment of referral)

The majority of dental work in equine ambulatory practice consists of routine oral examinations and dental treatments. Both examination and treatment are most important in maintaining a healthy oral and dental condition. Extraction of loose deciduous caps and wolf teeth in young horses and loose elements in old horses can easily be done in ambulatory practice. Also diagnosis and first treatment of periodontal disease due to diastema can be performed in the field. Essential for a proper oral examination are a full mouth speculum, a head stand or dental halter, a good light source, a mirror or oral endoscope and sedation. Small instruments such as dental probes, explores, picks and scalers can be used for periodontal, pulp and caries evaluation. After examination, findings should be registered on a dental chart or treatment form. […]