Dentistry in Pet Rabbits

CE Incisor malocclusion is common in rabbits. If this condition occurs as an isolated entity at an early age, it probably has a genetic origin. Incisor malocclusion in older animals is usually secondary to, or occurs concomitantly with, premolar–molar malocclusion. Therefore, patients with incisor malocclusion should always receive a comprehensive oral examination. Incisor–premolar–molar malocclusion with periodontal and endodontic disease is a disease complex that may include incisor malocclusion, distortion of the premolar–molar occlusal plane, sharp points or spikes, periodontal disease, periapical changes, apical elongation, oral soft tissue lesions, and maxillofacial abscess formation. It is unclear whether this syndrome has a genetic, dietary, or metabolic origin.Therapeutic options for incisor–premolar–molar malocclusion with periodontal and endodontic disease may include occlusal adjustment of involved teeth, extraction of teeth severely affected by endodontic and/or periodontal disease, and abscess debridement. Because rabbits with dental disease often have concurrent disease processes, a thorough systemic evaluation is usually indicated before initiating dental treatment. Balanced anesthetic technique with careful monitoring, attention to supportive care, and client education are important in successfully treating rabbits with dental disease. a long anatomic crown, erupt continuously, and remain open-rooted. The presence of maxillary second incisors, also known as peg teeth, behind the first incisors is typical in lagomorphs. The first incisors are very long and curved in rabbits. The maxillary first incisors and mandibular incisors grow at rates of 2 and 2.4 mm/wk, respectively. The enamel of the incisors is not distributed uniformly around the tooth; the enamel is thicker on the facial aspect and thinner on the lingual aspect. There are no canine teeth. Rabbits have a typical herbivore occlusion: The premolars and molars are grouped as a functional unit with a relatively horizontal occlusal surface with transverse enamel folds (i.e., lophodont teeth) for shredding and grinding tough fibrous food. The enamel folds correspond to deep invagination of September 2005 671 COMPENDIUM Dentistry in Pet Rabbits Frank J. M. Verstraete, DrMedVet