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Dental disease is common in captive-managed macropods, including Bennett's wallabies, and is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Dental extractions and debridement of diseased tissue is often necessary for those undergoing treatment for severe dental disease. Regional anesthesia of the dentition is considered standard of care for domestic animals undergoing orofacial surgery, however, it is not routinely performed in macropods due to limited information on dental anatomy and block approaches. Regional block descriptions for the infraorbital, maxillary, inferior alveolar, and mental blocks in domestic dogs and cats were evaluated and adapted for use in Bennett's wallabies based on descriptions of their anatomy and examination of 2 skulls. These approaches were then performed on cadaver heads with iohexol and methylene blue dye, and block placement was assessed on computed tomography scans and by gross dissection. All block approaches described in this study resulted in appropriate placement of regional anesthesia of the dentition in Bennett's wallabies. They can thus be used by clinicians to improve the intra and postoperative pain control of patients and provide a high level of veterinary care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine which types of bone lesion (spicules, lobules, porous bone) in the maxillary sinus indicate sinusitis Subadjacent dental disease is a cause of maxillary sinusitis; if a lesion type indicates sinusitis it should be more common above diseased posterior maxillary teeth than a lesion type that is not indicative of sinusitis. The study sample is a British Mediaeval human skeletal collection. Porous bone lesions (chiefly new bone deposits) in maxillary sinuses are associated with subadjacent dental disease; spicules/lobules of bone in the sinus are not. The results support the idea that porous lesions indicate sinusitis but the spicules/lobules may not. Spicules, lobules and porous lesions within the maxillary sinus should be analysed separately in biocultural studies; it would be prudent to regard only the porous lesions as indicative of sinusitis. Maxillary sinusitis is commonly used as a health indicator in palaeopathology, and spicular deposits are generally the most common type of alterations. By assuming that they are indicative of sinusitis we may have been greatly overestimating the prevalence of bony sinusitis in the past. These conclusions are provisional. Further work on larger, more diverse samples, together with more detailed anatomical studies on lesion location and structure is ongoing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the largest threats to global health. In society as well as in healthcare facilities, antimicrobial resistance is rapidly increasing with the main reason being overuse and misuse of antibiotics combined with inadequate infection prevention. For humans, dental care accounts for about 10% of all antibiotic prescriptions, making it an important target for antibiotic stewardship interventions. Corresponding figures for veterinary care are currently lacking but dental disease is frequently diagnosed in small animals. An important first step in the work towards prudent use of antibiotics is to understand antibiotic prescription habits and through that estimate the adherence to veterinary antibiotic guidelines as well as the need for education, training, and improved policies. The aim of this article is to present the results of a multicentre point prevalence survey sent to Swedish IVC Evidensia practices during autumn 2021 to recognize the use of antibiotics associated with dental treatments in dogs, cats, and rabbits. During the study period, 4.4% of the dental patients in Swedish IVC Evidensia small animal veterinary practices received antibiotics. The most used antibiotics prescribed were ampicillin, amoxicillin, and clindamycin indicating an overall high level of compliance to veterinary dental guidelines. This article demonstrates that Swedish veterinarians use antibiotics prudently in small animal dentistry and the results may be used as a future global benchmark. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To utilize standardized clinical veterinary methods to analyze dental health in a series of Roman dog maxillae and mandibles and to compare results to modern clinical data. 28 skulls of juvenile and adult dogs from three archaeological sites in Switzerland and Germany dating to the Roman period. Standardized examination was carried out, which included metric radiographic assessment to diagnose oral pathology and estimate age at death. In one case, CT analysis was undertaken. The estimated average age at death was between three and four years old. Tooth fracture, periodontal disease, the presence of non-vital teeth, and brachycephalic skull form were found in the sample. Tooth resorption was unexpectedly noted. The study provides valuable insights into the dental health of dogs in the Roman era. Compared to modern dogs, Roman dogs examined in this study appear to have a shorter lifespan but display a high rate of pathological dental disease, while disease patterns were very similar to those of modern dogs. Dogs with pronounced brachycephalic features were found. This pilot study is the first to use standardized clinical examination and recording techniques to assess dental health in dogs from archaeological contexts. It provides insight into the dental health of Roman era dogs and offers data upon which cross-populational studies can be initiated. The sample size and geographic location of the archaeological sites were limited. Subsequent standardized studies, preferably in as many different Roman Empire regions as possible, are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The documented increase in the occurrence of dental diseases in captive big cats over the past decades has necessitated the need to target dental medical research accordingly. The aim of this study was the systematic evaluation of dental and oral pathologies of lions and tigers which included intraoral dental radiography. Thirty-six animals of both sexes, ranging in age from nine months to 18 years, predominantly in circus husbandry, served as the basis of the present study, and their dental health status was investigated. The preliminary report and history, adspection of the awake animal, and examination under anesthesia provided important information. Eight animals were specifically presented for oral examination because of known dental disease. The remaining 28 animals were anesthetized for other medically necessary procedures, and each animal's oral and dental health status was also evaluated while under anesthesia. In the 28 animals that underwent routine oral cavity examination, pathological changes that had not previously been noticed were found in two-thirds of the animals (19/28). One-quarter of all the animals (9/36) had no abnormal oral cavity findings. Dentoalveolar trauma such as tooth fractures and abrasion (24/36) were diagnosed most frequently. The results highlight the importance of regular oral examinations in big cats. Furthermore, the results suggest that there is a relationship between husbandry conditions and the incidence of dentoalveolar trauma in captive big cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental disease in sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps) is understudied, with only limited clinical and pathological data available. An approximately 7-year-old female sugar glider presented to its primary care veterinarian for a decline in food intake, rapid weight loss and a mass involving the rostral mandible. At necropsy, the mandibular mass effaced most of the rostral mandible and adjacent musculature. Histologically, the mandible was disrupted by nodular infiltrates of variably degenerate neutrophils and macrophages encased in granulomatous inflammation and fibrous connective tissue. Within the neutrophilic cell population were segments of fragmented, necrotic bone and cloud-like colonies of gram-positive cocci. Aerobic culture yielded a heavy, pure growth of a gram-positive coccus morphologically consistent with those identified in the lesions, which was identified as a presumptively novel Kocuria sp by polymerase chain reaction and sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. This is the first description of Kocuria infection in association with clinically significant pathology in an animal. Although isolated as a pure growth, Kocuria sp cannot be confirmed as the sole cause of lesion formation due to the case chronicity and potential for unculturable, polymicrobial infections. This report adds to our understanding of the clinical and pathological aspects of dental disease in sugar gliders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Special needs children presenting with dental problems were penalised during the Covid-19 pandemic due to the reduction of clinical activity and the risks of nosocomial infection. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of the pandemic on oral healthcare in paediatric special needs patients. Methods: We retrospectively assessed and compared the outpatient clinic activity and dental procedures performed under general anaesthesia in children with special needs at Brescia Children's Hospital (Italy) in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Any delay between expected waiting time based on assigned priority and surgery was recorded. The efficacy of the protocol adopted to reduce the spread of Covid-19 was evaluated by reporting any infections in patients, parents, and health care providers. Results: In 2020, 270 outpatient visits were performed, and 40 patients were treated under general anaesthesia, with a 26% and 65% reduction, respectively, compared to 2019. In 2021, 362 visits were performed (similar to 2019) and 48 patients were treated under general anaesthesia (58% compared to 2019). The mean delay in the planned treatment was 1.0 month in 2019 (pre-pandemic period), 2.1 months in 2020, and 1.1 month in 2021. No cases of Covid-19 infection were reported in the cohort of patients and parents or among the operators related to nosocomial infection. Conclusions: The Covid-19 pandemic has profoundly reduced the activity of general anaesthesia in paediatric special need patients during 2020, with a gradual return to normal pre-pandemic activity in 2021. The adopted protocol prevented the spread of COVID-19 during hospitalisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

this research seeks to investigate the impact the industrial revolution had on the population of England. Pre-existing skeletal data from 1154 pre-Industrial (1066–1700 CE) and 4157 industrial (1700–1905) skeletons from 21 cemeteries (N = 5411). Context number, sex, age-at-death, stature and presence/absence of selected pathological conditions were collated. The data were compared using chi square, Kolmogorov-Smirnov, t-tests and logistic regression (α = 0.01). There was a statistically significant increase in cribra orbitalia, periosteal reactions, rib lesions, fractures, rickets, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, enamel hypoplasia, dental caries and periapical lesions in the industrial period. Osteomyelitis decreased from the pre-industrial to industrial period. Our results confirm the industrial revolution had a significant negative impact on human health, however the prevalence of TB, treponemal disease, maxillary sinusitis, osteomalacia, scurvy, gout and DISH did not change, suggesting these diseases were not impacted by the change in environmental conditions. This is the largest study of health in the industrial revolution that includes non-adults and adults and considers age-at-death alongside disease status to date. This data supports the hypothesis that the rise of industry was associated with a significant decline in general health, but not an increase in all pathological conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Dental diseases are a major problem in cats and often necessitate tooth extraction. Medical-grade honey (MGH) has antimicrobial and wound-healing properties, and therefore the aim of this study was to investigate whether intra-socket application improved healing after tooth extraction. It was postulated that applying MGH would reduce inflammation, improve the viability of the surgical flap and enhance healing following tooth extraction. Methods: A prospective randomised controlled trial was performed in client-owned cats undergoing bilateral tooth extractions of the same element of the canine or (pre)molar tooth. A split-mouth design was used in which every animal served as its own control. After surgical extraction of the elements, the sockets on one side were filled with an MGH-based ointment (L-Mesitran Soft), whereas the contralateral side received no treatment (control). A mucoperiosteal flap was used on both sides, and simple interrupted monofilament sutures were placed. No antimicrobial drugs were administered. Clinical parameters (inflammation/redness, flap viability and wound healing) were subjectively analysed on days 3 and 7 post-extraction by a veterinarian blinded to the treatment. Results: Twenty-one cats were included. MGH significantly decreased signs of inflammation (P <0.01), improved mucoperiosteal flap viability (P <0.01) and promoted wound healing (P = 0.01), at both time points. MGH was easy to apply and there were no adverse events. Conclusions and relevance: Intra-socket application of MGH after tooth extraction positively affects the surgical wound, as it reduces redness, improves flap viability and enhances wound healing. Applying MGH represents a potent adjuvant therapy to support intra-oral wound healing after tooth extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental pathology is among the most ubiquitous diseases in cats of all ages. Dental pain is yet to be fully understood in cats and therefore its presence is often missed. To better understand feline dental disease as a pain trigger during routine examination and whether disease severity correlates to the degree of pain, a 6-month prospective study in a cats' only veterinary hospital in Portugal was conducted. Sixty-four cats that randomly presented for different clinical procedures were evaluated. Dental and periodontal abnormalities (primary dental parameters, PDP), as well as clinical signs related to dental pain (secondary dental parameters, SDP), were assessed. All cats underwent an oral cavity examination, upon which, the Feline Acute Pain Scale from Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (CPS), was used in order to assess pain. Six PDP (periodontal disease, gingival index, calculus index, tooth resorption, tooth fracture and missing teeth) and five SDP (mouth discomfort, halitosis, hypersalivation, difficulty in holding food and several attempts at prehension of food), were compared with CPS pain scores. All SDP were significantly associated to higher CPS pain scores (p < 0.05). The number of missing teeth was significantly associated to higher CPS pain scores (p < 0.0001). A trend was observed between higher CPS pain scores and tooth resorption (p = 0.08). This study concluded that cats with dental disease feel pain during clinical examination and the pain increases as the severity of the disease progresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Implantological procedures aimed at rehabilitating upper jaw edentulous patients (dental implant placement and/or maxillary sinus grafting) can sporadically result in sinusitis. In these patients, endoscopic sinus surgery is the most commonly employed treatment, but clinical scenarios and comprehensive management strategies are extremely heterogeneous across studies. Objective: We sought to systematically define treatment strategies and related success rates for sinusitis following dental implantation, detailing different current treatment choices and concepts. Methods: Adopting a PRISMA–compliant review framework, systematic searches were performed in multiple databases using criteria designed to include all studies published until November 2020 focusing on the treatment of human sinusitis following dental implantation. We selected all original studies, excluding case reports, specifying treatment modalities with objective treatment success definitions. Following duplicate removal, abstract and full-text selection, and quality assessment, we reviewed eligible articles for treatment modalities and success rates, which were pooled in a random-effects meta-analysis. Results: Among 581 unique citations, eight studies (181 patients) were selected. Seven studies were retrospective case series. All studies relied on endoscopic sinus surgery, often coupled with intraoral accesses, and assessed therapeutic success endoscopically. The pooled treatment success rate was 94.7% (95% confidence interval, 91.5%–98%). Failures were treated in seven of 15 cases with further antibiotic therapies and in another seven cases with surgical revision. A single patient was lost to follow-up. Conclusions: Endoscopic sinus surgery appears to be the most frequent treatment of choice for sinusitis following dental implantation, with excellent success rates. The protean clinical picture drawn from the selected studies calls for the standardization of diagnostics and definitions in this field to enable direct comparisons between the results of different studies. The role of postoperative antibiotic therapies, which have been employed unevenly across studies, should also be prospectively investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Odontogenic sinusitis affects a significant proportion of patients with paranasal sinus infections. Nevertheless, no shared diagnostic criteria for this condition have yet been implemented and published studies differ in their definition of the disease. Objective: The present systematic review of the literature was undertaken to characterize and analyze the different diagnostic criteria currently employed for odontogenic sinusitis. Methods: Systematic searches for studies published between 2009 and 2019 were performed in Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases. Search criteria were designed to identify all studies focusing, even partially, on odontogenic sinusitis. Human original studies except single case reports published in the English, French, German, Spanish, or Italian language were included. We removed duplicate abstracts and conducted full-text reads, data extraction, and quality assessment procedures (using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine levels of evidence and National Heart Lung and Blood Institute Study Quality Assessment Tools). We reviewed articles for diagnostic criteria, both in terms of definition and etiology identification. Results: Among 1,000 unique citations, 63 studies were deemed eligible. Most articles (n = 45) were retrospective case series; a single randomized clinical trial was available. Only 49 studies reported diagnostic criteria, yet relied marginally on published guidelines (n = 10 articles) for identifying sinusitis, often choosing instead to develop their own clinical (n = 15 articles), endoscopic (n = 12 articles), and/or radiologic (n = 30 articles) criteria. For odontogenic focus identification, 14 papers required a multidisciplinary evaluation, 11 papers required a time relationship between dental procedures and sinusitis, 24 papers required oroscopy and/or dental evaluation, and 53 papers required computed tomography. Conclusions: Current diagnostic criteria for odontogenic sinusitis are extremely heterogeneous. Establishing shared diagnostic criteria aimed at defining both sinusitis and related odontogenic foci would spur collaboration between investigators and support more comprehensive outcomes evaluations together with a better understanding of treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 10-y-old giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata) bull developed colic after a 3-mo history of reduced feed consumption. Physical examination and management were performed with 2 standing sedations. The giraffe developed metabolic alkalosis and progressive pre-renal azotemia followed by compensatory respiratory acidosis and paradoxical aciduria. A metallic "ping" sound was auscultated on the left side near ribs 10–12. The giraffe was euthanized given the grave prognosis, and postmortem examination confirmed left displacement of the abomasum (LDA) with fluid sequestration (150–190 L [40–50 gal]) within the rumen. Dental disease was evident at postmortem examination and perimortem skull computed tomography. To ensure cases of LDA are not overlooked, the position of the abomasum must be noted during postmortem examination prior to removal of the gastrointestinal tract. The risk factors for the development of LDA in giraffes are not known, and associations such as those of dairy cattle (hypocalcemia, high-concentrate low-fiber diet, and indoor housing) remain to be elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The '2021 AAFP Feline Senior Care Guidelines' are authored by a Task Force of experts in feline clinical medicine and serve as an update and extension of those published in 2009. They emphasize the individual patient evaluation and the process of aging, with references to other feline practice guidelines for a more complete discussion of specific diseases. Focusing on each cat encourages and empowers the owner to become a part of the cat's care every step of the way. A comprehensive discussion during the physical examination and history taking allows for tailoring the approach to both the cat and the family involved in the care. Videos and analysis of serial historical measurements are brought into the assessment of each patient. These Guidelines introduce the emerging concept of frailty, with a description and methods of its incorporation into the senior cat assessment. Minimum database diagnostics are discussed, along with recommendations for additional investigative considerations. For example, blood pressure assessment is included as a minimum diagnostic procedure in both apparently healthy and ill cats. Cats age at a much faster rate than humans, so practical timelines for testing frequency are included and suggest an increased frequency of diagnostics with advancing age. The importance of nutrition, as well as senior cat nutritional needs and deficiencies, is considered. Pain is highlighted as its own syndrome, with an emphasis on consideration in every senior cat. The Task Force discusses anesthesia, along with strategies to allow aging cats to be safely anesthetized well into their senior years. The medical concept of quality of life is addressed with the latest information available in veterinary medicine. This includes end of life considerations like palliative and hospice care, as well as recommendations on the establishment of 'budgets of care', which greatly influence what can be done for the individual cat. Acknowledgement is given that each cat owner will be different in this regard; and establishing what is reasonable and practical for the individual owner is important. A discussion on euthanasia offers some recommendations to help the owner make a decision that reflects the best interests of the individual cat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite periodontal disease being recognized as a common condition in captive bearded dragons, there is a lack of data regarding the prevalence. A soft diet has previously been cited as the main risk factor linked to the disease, although there has been little research conducted into the etiology since the disease was first described. The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of dental abnormalities and disease in captive Central bearded dragons in the United Kingdom, and to begin to investigate the risk factors affecting the presence and increased severity of disease in this species. Data collection was conducted from 20 veterinary practices across the United Kingdom from March to October 2018. All bearded dragons presented to participating practices during this time period were assessed for the presence of dental disease, and for each animal a standardized data collection form was completed to provide information concerning the animal's signalment, diet, and health status. Severity of any dental disease was also graded in a subset of bearded dragons (n = 147) by two of the authors using a grading system from 0 to 5. The prevalence of dental abnormalities and disease was 50% in the sampled population of 304 bearded dragons. Increasing age, an abnormal body condition score, presence of concurrent disease, as well as presence of fruit in the diet were all significant risk factors for the presence of dental abnormalities and disease. Contrary to previous reports, neither presence of different live foods in the diet, nor presence of vegetable matter in the diet had any significant associations with dental abnormalities and disease, challenging some of the assumptions made to date about the etiology of dental disease in Central bearded dragons. This study instead found that fruit could be the main dietary risk factor for dental disease and should be excluded from the captive diet of these animals. This study has found a strong association between increasing age and presence of dental abnormalities and disease, and stresses the importance of a thorough oral exam, especially in older individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, many people are affected by oral health issues because of continuous changes in lifestyle such as personal speech that is affected by crooked teeth and malocclusion teeth. Moreover, a dental problem can cause bacterial infections, cavities, and many other diseases due to an improper lifestyle. In this research, a novel Intelligent Ant Lion-based Convolution Neural Model (IALCNM) is designed for segmenting affected parts in teeth and to classify the wear and periodontitis diseases from the collected dataset. Moreover, the developed technique is implemented in the python 3.8 environment and the attained results of the developed procedure are related to other existing techniques implemented for different diseases in standings of accuracy, precision, error rate, execution time, and so on. Hence the outcome indicates that the current research technique applied to self-created datasets has enhanced the accuracy of segmenting affected parts and disease prediction more than other techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An adult, 2-year-old, 173 g, intact male degu ( Octodon degus ) was presented to the authors’ clinic with a 2-week history of reduced food intake, weight loss, epiphora, and dyspnea. Physical examination revealed lethargy, cachexia, bilateral serous ocular discharge, dehydration, inspiratory dyspnea, and severe dental disease. Diagnostic investigation showed extensive apical elongation of premolars causing partial nasal cavity obstruction by masses of increased opacity, and loss of conchal detail. The animal was euthanized due to general poor condition and the severity of disease. Postmortem micro–computed tomography showed marked reserve crown elongation of all premolars and molars. All cheek teeth were abnormally curved and had widened interdental spaces. The apex of the maxillary left premolar nearly penetrated the left nasal bone. Both maxillary premolars penetrated into the nasal cavity and caused complete left and partial right nasal cavity obstruction. Apices of all premolars were dysplastic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 6-year-old intact male guinea pig was referred with a 5-day history of reduced food intake and weight loss. Incisor teeth were clipped with nail clippers at another veterinary clinic 4 days earlier. Owing to a poor prognosis and the health status of the animal, the owner elected for euthanasia. Based on the postmortem results of the oral cavity examination, micro–computed tomography analysis, bacteriology, and histopathology, iatrogenic incisor malocclusion, incisor enamel fractures, dental disease, hepatic lipidosis, chronic purulent gingivitis/periodontitis caused by Fusobacterium nucleatum and Prevotella buccae , and dental caries were determined to be the final, postmortem diagnoses. Patients with acquired dental disease should be screened carefully for periodontitis, as periodontal disease is progressive in nature and early detection, diagnosis, and treatment are essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate diagnosis of dental disease and related complications is extremely important in companion rabbit medicine. When dental disease is diagnosed, a proper prognosis and surgical plan is essential for treatment success. The objectives of this retrospective study were to compare survey radiography and computed tomography (CT) of the skull and teeth in rabbit patients affected by dental disease verifying consistency between observers and diagnostic significance of the 2 techniques, and to evaluate diagnostic accuracy of the 2 modalities for prognostic and therapeutic purposes. In total, 27 pet rabbits were included in the study. A second diagnostic procedure was performed on 3 patients with dental disease for a total of 30 examinations for each technique. A full series of 5 extraoral radiographic views and CT scans of the head without contrast medium were obtained from each patient while under general anesthesia. With both series of imaging modalities, 13 bilateral anatomic and dental structures were evaluated by 2 observers for each patient’s skull. Observations were statistically consistent for diagnosis, within the same technique and between the 2 techniques. Diagnostic accuracy of CT was superior in 24 patients (80%) in diagnosis and prognosis and in 17 patients (56.6%) for guiding extraoral dental and surgical treatment. Radiography provided superior accuracy in 5 patients (16.6%) for guiding intraoral dental treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Between January and December 2013, the dental and periodontal health of 99 Swedish wild boars ( Sus scrofa ) was investigated. Sampling occurred in conjunction with routine hunting at six large estates in the southern and middle parts of Sweden. All six of the estates use supplemental feeding. The weight of the animals, their sex and their dates of death were noted. Age was estimated using tooth eruption and tooth replacement patterns. The oral cavity was inspected and abnormalities were recorded on a dental chart modified for wild boars. The findings included supernumerary teeth, absence of teeth, mild class II malocclusion, severe tooth wear, periodontitis, calculus, caries, tooth fractures and the presence of enamel defects. Swedish wild boars suffer from different dental lesions and the impact of supplemental feeding on dental and periodontal health is still to be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of dental abnormalities due to improper occlusal wear is common among modern domestic horses. This phenomenon often is attributed to jaw conformation. Rostral mandibular hooks may develop in horses with underjet or mandibular prognathism, a condition where the lower jaw protrudes forward, beyond the upper jaw. Less abrasive diet, free of phytoliths and matrix-like plant fibers, also may promote enamel and focal overgrowths of equine dentition. Here we report a rostral mandibular hook in a lower premolar tooth of a medieval horse, found in a spring deposit in Levänluhta, Osthrobothnia, Finland. To our knowledge, this is the first such report from a medieval horse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the case study of three koalas at the San Diego Zoo with moderate to severe interproximal Eucalyptus spp. retention. Study used premise trimodal composite to create dental onlay bridge-like prostheses to eliminate enlarged interproximal spaces. Study found that the prosthesis replicates normal tooth coloration and appearance and wears at a similar rate to surrounding teeth.

Abstract: Companion exotic mammal herbivores may be diagnosed with chronic disease that the owner believes is causing acute clinical illness. It is generally believed that because of the enhanced disease-masking ability of these “prey” species, numerous disease states may go unnoticed for a significant period. A veterinarian should be knowledgeable about this behavior trait and consider its possible effects when assessing the patient''s health status. In some cases, the chronic disease condition may respond rapidly to treatment, whereas with other diagnoses, treatment is more frustrating. This article describes a selection of chronic disease conditions that one may diagnose in guinea pigs (e.g., hypovitaminosis C, trixacariasis, urolithiasis, dental disease), chinchillas (e.g., dental disease), and rabbits (e.g., dental disease, renal failure, cranial thoracic mass disease). Gastrointestinal and cardiovascular disease problems diagnosed in companion exotic mammal herbivores are covered elsewhere in this journal issue. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a study which aims to identify, quantify and describe the dental lesions among Malaysian tapirs through the use of archived skulls and mandibles. The study involves the evaluation of 56 skulls and mandibles from deceased Malaysian tapirs using radiography to determine the prevalence of dental ailments. The result shows that 27% of the investigated skulls have radiolucent dental lesions, in which the second, third and fourth premolars were the most commonly affected teeth. Furthermore, the study suggests that the development of the lesions is primarily caused by age and captivity.

Summary: Dental data from 22 Swedish brown bears (Ursus arctos) were collected during April and May 2008, during the annual capture of free-ranging brown bears in Dalarna County, Sweden by the Scandinavian Brown Bear Research Project. The bears were of different genders and ages. All animals were weighed and subjected to physical examination and all were found to be in good condition. The oral cavity was inspected and photographed and abnormalities were recorded on a dental chart. One bear had mild class II malocclusion. All yearlings had varying numbers of incompletely erupted permanent teeth. All adult bears were missing one or more premolars. Tooth wear increased with age; the most affected teeth were the incisors followed by the canines, premolars and molars. Complicated fractures most commonly affected the canines. Fifteen animals had gross evidence of enamel defects, but the aetiology of these was not determined. There was a low prevalence of calculus and periodontal disease and none of the bears had caries infections. The mean pH of saliva collected from these animals was 9.75. Further studies, based on a larger sample size followed over time, will be required in order to evaluate the progression of dental disease in brown bears. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This article describes a case of severe acquired dental disease with elodontoma formation in the nasal cavity of a 3.5-year-old degu (Octodon degus). Physical examination revealed cachexia, bilateral serous nasal discharge, dehydration, inspiratory dyspnea and severe acquired dental disease. Diagnostic investigation revealed severe apical elongation of all cheek teeth, dental caries of the occlusal surface of the first right mandibular premolar, exposed crown lysis (osteoresorption) of the mandibular premolars, and multiple areas of increased opacity of the right nasal cavity with loss of conchal detail. Because of general poor condition and severity of disease, the animal was euthanized. Postmortem examination revealed a mass in the nasal cavity associated with the right maxillary incisor. The mass was characterized on histopathology as an elodontoma. To the authors'' knowledge, this is the first described case of elodontoma in this species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nonhuman primates require, at minimum, annual dental examination, cleaning, and prophylactic care. Sedation is necessary for examination and may be extended into full anesthesia should dental conditions require oral surgery. Because there is a potential zoonotic disease risk during dental procedures, personal protective equipment should include masks, double gloving, face shields, and goggles. Dental disease commonly treated in nonhuman primates includes tartar and calculus, gingivitis, fractures and caries, periodontal disease, abscesses, and osteomyelitis. Ethical considerations of canine tooth reduction will also be discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ferrets commonly present with dental disease. Principles of veterinary dentistry can be applied to diagnose and treat dental conditions in these animals. Common presentations include calculus, gingivitis, missing teeth, fractured teeth, necrotic teeth, periodontal disease, and dental abscesses. Regular dental cleaning and prophylaxis, along with home brushing, should be encouraged. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Dental disease remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in rabbits, rodents, and other small herbivores. Because of their small oral commissure, the rigid telescope is an ideal tool for examining and working within the buccal cavity of these animals. Focal illumination and magnification provide greater sensitivity and accuracy for identifying occlusal dental disease than other modalities. In addition, the telescope provides intraoperative visualization during dental trimming, extractions, and exploration of abscess, nasal, or paranasal cavities associated with dental structures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This article presents a review of differences in physioanatomy of the masticatory apparatus and pathophysiology of dental disease in rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas. The entire dentition of these commonly kept pets is aradicular hypsodont, with teeth that continue to grow throughout life. This peculiarity of nature is present in animals with marked chewing behavior and allows replacement of tooth substance that is lost because of constant abrasive wear. Evidence is emerging that inappropriate physical form and composition of the diet may be responsible for tooth elongation and associated conditions in captive lagomorphs and rodents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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Abstract: Dental disease in rodents can be difficult to diagnose based on oral examination and radiography alone, but diagnosis can be aided with computed tomography (CT). An adult guinea pig presented with nonspecific signs of pain, mild exophthalmia, and strabismus. Initial complete blood count, plasma biochemistry, and radiographs were nondiagnostic, so high-resolution micro CT was performed. A diagnosis of a tooth root abscess of the left maxillary third molar and associated osteomyelitis was made based on CT images. Micro CT, which can provide superior resolution over conventional CT, has been used primarily for research purposes in veterinary medicine but proved beneficial in this case. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Dentistry is a very important branch of medicine and surgery for exotic pet mammals. Because of their anatomical and physiological differences, many health problems in pet rabbits and herbivorous rodent species are primarily or secondarily related to dental diseases, making this discipline even more important for this group of mammals. Special equipment and other materials are available for diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases in these species. Among them, the most important are mouth gags, cheek dilators, specially designed luxators and extraction forceps, and straight hand pieces for high-speed dental units for cutting and polishing. The small exotic mammal dental suite should also include radiographic and endoscopic equipment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a retrospective case report which investigated the association between a rare case of endogenous endophthalmitis with dental disease secondary to Serratia marcescens in an HIV-negative individual. It describes the findings of several diagnostic examinations conducted, including slit-lamp examination, computed tomography, blood and urine cultures, echocardiography, and intravitreal culture.

Background: The oral cavity is a common site of complications related to the cytotoxic effect of high-dose chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Considering our limited understanding of the burden of illness in the oral cavity from various cytotoxic therapies, it is difficult to produce evidence-based, preventive and management protocols. A prospective multicenter study is necessary to collect data on the burden of illness from various cytotoxic regimens. Objective: The objectives of this prospective international observational multicenter study in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) patients are to establish the nature, incidence and temporal relationship of oral complications related to conditioning regimens (chemotherapy with or without total body irradiation), stem cell transplantation and the immunologic reactions (mainly graft-vs-host-disease) that may follow, and to determine what subjective and objective oral complications related to treatment can predict negative clinical and economic outcomes and reduced quality of life. Methods: Adult patients at six study sites receiving full intensity conditioning, reduced intensity conditioning or nonmyeloablative conditioning, followed by autologous or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell infusion, are included. A pre-treatment assessment includes medical conditions, planned chemo- and radiation therapy regimen, medications, allergies, social history, patient report of oral problems, dental history, subjective oral complaints, objective measures of oral conditions, current laboratory values, dental treatment recommended and untreated dental disease. Starting 1-3 days after hematopoietic stem cell infusion, a bedside assessment is completed 3 days per week until resolution of neutropenia. A patient questionnaire is also completed during hospitalization. Beyond this time, patients with continued oral mucositis or other oral problems are followed 1 day per week in an inpatient or outpatient setting. Additional visits for urgent care for acute oral problems after hospitalization are documented. Autologous transplant patients are being followed up at 100 days (SD 30 days) and at 1 year (SD 30 days) post-transplantation to identify any long-term side effects. Patients treated with allogeneic transplantation are being followed at 100 days (SD 30 days), 6 months (SD 30 days), and 12 months (SD 30 days). The follow-up assessments include cancer response to therapy, current medical conditions, medications, subjective and objective oral findings, quality of life measures and laboratory values. The targeted enrollment is 254 patients who have received HSCT. Results: A total of 260 participants have been enrolled, with 233 (91%) who have received HSCT. We anticipate enrollment of 20-30 additional participants to obtain the sample size of 254 enrolled participants who have received HSCT. Conclusions: The results of the ongoing prospective study will provide a unique dataset to understand the impact of oral complications on patients undergoing HSCT and provide needed evidence for guidelines regarding the management of this patient cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]