Tooth Elongation of Maxillary Second Premolars and Mandibular Third Molars and Associated Periodontal Disease in Horses: A Retrospective Study.

This study explores the correlation between the abnormal elongation of specific teeth and the development of periodontal disease in horses, using a retrospective analysis of dental records from 2016 to 2018. The research found a significant positive relationship between these two factors, suggesting that early detection and treatment of tooth elongation could be vital in preventing periodontal disease and preserving the overall dental health of the horse.

Study Participants and Inclusion Criteria

• The research was conducted on client-owned horses who were examined by a professional certified by the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) over the period of 2016-2018.
• Only cases where tooth elongation was detected in one of the following pairs of teeth were included in the study: 106/107, 206/207, 310/311, or 410-411. These terms refer to specific teeth within the equine dental formula, with “1” representing upper right, “2” upper left, “3” lower left, and “4” lower right, followed by specific tooth numbers.

Analysis Method and Findings

• The researchers utilised a Bayesian correlation analysis to examine the relationship between tooth elongations and different stages of periodontal disease (PD 1-4).
• The results revealed significant positive correlations between tooth elongation and periodontal disease: PD1 and teeth 106-107 and 206-207, PD2 and PD4 with all four pairs of teeth, and PD3 with 106-107.

Implications and Practical Applications

• The research findings have crucial implications for equine dental care. The discovery of a relationship between the occurrence of tooth elongation and the development of periodontal disease in horses suggests the need for early detection and intervention.
• Clinically, dental check-ups and regular prophylaxis could lead to the early identification of tooth elongation, potentially preventing its progression and the subsequent development of periodontal disease. This could ultimately contribute to the preservation of equine teeth and general dental health.