Stop Taking Radiographs on Old Horses!
- Nick Moore, DVM
- Jul 16, 2024
- 1 min read
Today, we discussed a geriatric horse case and emphasized the importance of oral exams over radiographs for older horses. X-rays often show changes in an old horse's teeth that are normal due to aging, making it hard to identify actual dental issues. We highlighted that examining the mouth directly is crucial, as all teeth in an older horse will look abnormal on an x-ray. We also demonstrated using an endoscope to inspect the horse's mouth, showing how enamel wears down and the role of peripheral cementum in older horses. We identified potential problems like periodontal disease and the risk of sinusitis, which wouldn't be visible on an x-ray. Additionally, we explained the need for occlusal equilibration—adjusting the chewing surfaces of teeth—to prevent dental diseases and maintain overall health. We stressed that understanding and performing occlusal equilibration is fundamental in equine dentistry and crucial for effectively helping horses.
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