The importance of a thorough oral exam

A fracture of an incisor is easy to miss because small fractures are not always obvious. However, whenever the fracture is deep enough to expose the pulp, there are only 2 treatments available, root canal therapy and extraction

A fractured incisor from the front would be easy to

miss.

Another view of the fractured incisor showing necrotic pulp

Notice the root which has been shortened by resorption secondary to infection

This tooth was extracted because it is a small and relatively unimportant tooth and the root resorption would have made root canal therapy more difficult

Welcome to Dental Digest

Dental Digest is a publication of Dentistry for Pets. Dental Digest was created by Dr. Rob Yelland in an effort to pass on topical veterinary dental information to both pet owners and other veterinarians. We will try and include new scientific information regarding dentistry as well as interesting cases we see in our practice. Unfortunately, due to time constraints we will not be able to accept comments or questions. If you have questions, please contact Dr. Yelland or one of his staff members at Berkeley Dog & Cat Hospital.