The effect of three types of rasps on the occlusal surface of equine cheek teeth: a scanning electron microscopic study.

This study investigates the effect of different rasping tools on horses’ teeth. It finds substantial tooth and gum damage attributable to these procedures, asking for further research to find optimal techniques.

Objective

The study’s main objective was to evaluate and compare the impact of three types of rasps (two hand rasps and an electrically-driven bur) on the occlusal surface of equine cheek teeth. The teeth were examined postmortem, and after treatment, compared to untreated control teeth. The study also looked at dental debris produced by the procedures.

Methodology

• For the study, two hand rasps (tungsten chip blade, solid carbide blade) and one electrically-driven solid carbide axial bur were used on horse teeth immediately after they passed away.
• Each horse provided six treated teeth and six untreated control teeth, with the treatment aspiring to a standard considered satisfactory in veterinary practice.
• Post-treatment, the teeth were extracted, and the clinical crown removed, preparing it for a scanning electron microscopy examination.

Findings

• All three rasping techniques were found to disrupt odontoblast processes, which entails damage to the tooth’s structure.
• The solid carbide blade resulted in deep gouges and grooves in the dentin, as well as a chipping of the enamel and peripheral cement. No smear layer was created by this instrument.
• The tungsten chip blade rasp created a partial smear layer and produced a smoother surface compared to the solid carbide blade.
• The electrically-driven bur generated a complete smear layer and removed all dental tissues, leaving a smooth layer behind. However, enamel damage was observed in teeth treated with the electric bur.
• The debris produced by the procedures and collected after they were larger when hand rasping was used compared to the electric bur.

Concerns and Further Research

The authors expressed concern about the extent of damage to sensitive and vital dentin tissue caused by these rasping techniques. They called for additional investigations to establish the least harmful and most effective technique for rasping equine cheek teeth.