Supernumerary cheek teeth (n = 24): clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and outcome in 15 horses.

The research paper is a study about extra cheek teeth (SCT) in horses, their diagnosis, treatment, results of these treatments, and overall prognosis for the animals.

Objective and Methodology

• The objective was to provide more information on SCT in horses as there are limited reports on this topic. This was done by observing clinical findings, different treatments and their responses, and tracking outcomes over a long period.
• The researchers followed 15 horses that had a total of 24 SCT. They reviewed the medical records of these horses and conducted interviews over the phone for long-term updates.

Findings

• Out of the 24 SCT identified in 15 horses, two were incidental findings and didn’t require treatment. Improvement was noted in 11 out of 13 teeth treated conservatively and all six teeth extracted had good outcomes.
• However, four horses had to be euthanised shortly after the diagnosis due to poor prognosis or non-response to initial conservative treatment.

Conclusions

• The research found that some SCT are found by chance and do not cause clinical symptoms. Thus, no treatment is required in such cases.
• If clinical signs of dental disease are noted, conservative treatment is usually effective when the disease is mild. This includes the management of diastema, or gap between teeth, and reduction of overgrowth.
• Ideally, if any severe clinical signs can be attributed to an SCT, extraction of the offending tooth is recommended.
• While SCT is not a common dental anomaly, it’s worth considering in cases that present signs of severe dental disease.
• Treatment for the SCT greatly varies based on severity of the associated changes. It can range from simple conservative measures, forceps extraction, to even major facial flap surgeries.