Abnormal lower tusks in a male wild boar (Sus scrofa L.)

Abstract

We present a case of abnormal permanent mandibular canines (tusks) in a male wild boar, aged three to four years. The proximal portions of both tusks exhibit a marked reduction in circumference and in the thickness of their enamel and dentine. The pulp cavities of the distal and proximal portions of both teeth are completely separated by reparative dentine. Moreover, the dentinal wear surfaces exhibit openings, thereby exposing the pulp cavities of the teeth. This is hypothetically attributed to insufficient formation of secondary dentine. It is assumed that in both teeth opening of the pulp cavity led to inflammation and extensive necrosis of the dental pulp and, subsequently, to shrinkage of the pulp and the enamel organ, resulting in the reduced circumference of the proximal tooth portions.