Tandheelkunde bij het paard in de 21e eeuw, deel 2 : onderzoek van de paardenmond en diagnostische hulpmiddelen voor detectie van gebitspathologie
Authors: Elke Pollaris, E. V. D. Vekens, I. Gielen, Casper Crijns, L. Vlaminck
Journal: Vlaams Diergeneeskundig Tijdschrift
Summary
# Editorial Summary Effective diagnosis underpins all equine dental treatment, yet many practitioners lack standardised approaches to oral examination and interpretation of findings. Pollaris and colleagues present a comprehensive framework for modern equine dental diagnostics, emphasising the critical relationship between thorough clinical assessment using consistent terminology and strategic use of imaging modalities to confirm pathology. A systematic oral examination combined with accurate dental record documentation forms the foundation; this must then be complemented by targeted diagnostic imaging—endoscopy for visualising oral and pharyngeal structures, radiography and computed tomography for assessing hard tissues and periapical disease, scintigraphy for identifying inflammatory activity, and MRI for soft tissue and bone marrow involvement—each technique providing complementary rather than redundant information. The authors stress that precise identification of the disease process through this multi-modal approach is essential for formulating accurate prognoses and selecting appropriate interventions. For farriers and veterinarians, adopting standardised examination protocols and understanding when and how to deploy advanced imaging will substantially improve diagnostic accuracy and client communication regarding treatment outcomes.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Use standardized terminology and dental record sheets during every oral exam to ensure consistent documentation and better communication with colleagues about findings
- •Select imaging modality based on the suspected pathology—no single technique provides complete information; combine methods for thorough diagnosis
- •Invest time in thorough examination and proper diagnosis before treating dental problems, as this directly impacts treatment success and prognosis
Key Findings
- •Proper oral examination combined with standardized terminology and dental record sheets is essential for accurate diagnosis of equine dental pathology
- •Multiple diagnostic imaging modalities (endoscopy, radiography, CT, scintigraphy, MRI) provide complementary information for identifying specific dental disease processes
- •Accurate diagnosis of the underlying disease process is a prerequisite for proper prognosis and therapeutic planning in equine dentistry