Two- and three-dimensional computed tomographic anatomy of the enamel, infundibulae and pulp of 126 equine cheek teeth. Part 1: Findings in teeth without macroscopic occlusal or computed tomographic lesions.

Summary

# Editorial Summary Understanding the internal architecture of equine cheek teeth has long been hampered by limited imaging capabilities, yet accurate interpretation of CT scans now requires detailed knowledge of normal anatomical variation—particularly regarding pulp morphology, enamel distribution, and infundibular anatomy. Windley and colleagues examined 126 clinically sound cheek teeth using both 2D and 3D computed tomography, establishing a comprehensive baseline of normal anatomy against which pathological changes could be reliably identified. Their findings revealed considerable individual variation in pulp chamber size and morphology, enamel thickness patterns, and the depth and extent of infundibulae—variations that could easily be misinterpreted as pathology if practitioners lack familiarity with the normal range. This anatomical atlas provides essential reference data for clinicians interpreting CT images in suspected cases of pulpitis, secondary dentine formation, or infundibular disease, substantially improving diagnostic accuracy and preventing unnecessary treatment of incidental findings. For equine practitioners using CT as a diagnostic tool, these baseline measurements and descriptions are indispensable for distinguishing normal anatomical features from genuine pathological lesions requiring intervention.

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Key Findings

• •Established baseline 2D and 3D CT anatomy of equine cheek teeth without macroscopic lesions
• •Documented normal pulp chamber morphology and distribution in 126 sound teeth
• •Described enamel and infundibulae anatomy using computed tomographic imaging
• •Provided reference standard for diagnosing equine dental pathology using CT imaging

Conditions Studied