Fractured teeth in equids

Abstract

Dental fractures are common in equids; in some cases, they result in no apparent clinical problems, while in others they can lead to endodontic infection resulting in clinical sequelae. Causes of dental fractures are not always easy to elucidate, but can include external trauma, structural weakening because of endodontic or infundibular disease, iatrogenic and idiopathic causes. Appropriate management of fractured teeth is reliant on a good understanding of dental anatomy and physiology. Investigation should include determining which parts of the tooth are involved in the fracture, how the body has responded to the dental insult as well as the age of the animal and the chronicity of the fracture. Treatment options include endodontic procedures (both vital and non-vital), restorative therapies, tooth extraction and careful proactive monitoring.