Pathophysiology of acquired dental diseases of the horse

Acquired dental diseases commonly recognized in the horse include retained deciduous teeth, periodontitis, periapical infection, and infundibular decay. Gingival hyperplasia, brachygnathia, and odontogenic tumors are recognized less frequently. This article discusses the physiologic and pathologic changes in the cheek teeth of horses. Causes of periapical dental disease reviewed are anachorectic pulpitis, periodontitis and infundibular decay. Sequelae to periapical dental disease are presented. Acquired brachygnathia is identified by repeated oral examination of the growing foal and allows for timely treatment when appropriate. Odontogenic tumors, including ameloblastomas and odontomas, are discussed. Ameloblastomas are generally identified in old horses and involve the mandible whereas odontomas usually occur in the young adult horse and exhibit maxillary involvement.