.png)
How to save a horse tooth! | Infundibular Caries
- Nick Moore DVM
- May 14
- 2 min read
Equine dental care is an essential but often overlooked aspect of a horse's overall health. One common issue that can compromise dental integrity is infundibular caries—a developmental condition that can weaken the structure of a horse’s tooth and lead to fractures. In this post, we’ll walk you through a real-life case involving infundibular caries, exploring what it looks like, how it’s diagnosed, and the restorative procedure used to treat it.
What Are Infundibular Caries?
Infundibular caries are cavities that develop in the infundibulum, a funnel-shaped structure found in the center of a horse's upper cheek teeth. These caries are often developmental in origin, meaning they result from how the tooth formed rather than wear-and-tear or diet alone. Left untreated, they can cause significant structural weakness, eventually leading to tooth fractures.
Case Overview: Signs and Diagnosis
In the video, we examine a horse with visible dark spots between the teeth—an early sign of decay. Upon closer inspection with an oral endoscope, we see structural breakdown in several teeth. One in particular, tooth 210, shows a chip fracture and a hollowed-out center where part of the infundibulum has broken down. This level of damage places the tooth at high risk of further fracturing.
The Restoration Process
1. Cleaning and Debridement
We begin by carefully cleaning out the infundibulum. Using a combination of hand files and high-speed dental drills, we remove decayed material and any food debris lodged in the cavity. In this case, parts of the broken tooth naturally dislodge during the cleaning process, revealing more extensive internal damage.
2. Etching and Bonding
Once the cavity is fully cleaned and dried, we apply an acid etch to the internal walls. This helps prepare the tooth surface for bonding. Next, we apply a bonding agent—essentially a dental-grade adhesive that ensures the composite filling will adhere securely to the tooth.
3. Composite Filling
A dual-cure composite is used to fill and rebuild the tooth. The material hardens through both a chemical reaction and UV light exposure. The final restoration matches the hardness of dentin, giving the tooth strength and functionality similar to its original state.
Final Result and Prognosis
Once filled, the restored tooth looks almost like new. The prognosis is excellent—many of these restorations last for years and significantly reduce the risk of further damage. It’s a highly effective way to preserve the horse’s natural teeth and overall oral health.
Why This Matters
For veterinarians, recognizing and treating infundibular caries is vital to extending the dental lifespan of horses. Early diagnosis and proper restoration techniques can prevent tooth loss, reduce discomfort, and improve the horse’s quality of life.
Want to Learn More?
If you're a veterinary professional interested in learning how to perform these procedures, we offer training courses on equilibration, diagnosis, endoscopic assessment, and more. While the techniques require specialized equipment and training, they offer a high reward in clinical outcomes and client satisfaction. You can always contact us at mooredvmeducation@gmail.com or call the office at 512-508-8141.
Comments