## Overview Equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis (EOTRH) is a painful progressive disease of the incisor and canine teeth in older horses. Odontoclasts resorb dental tissue, followed by excessive cementum deposition. It causes periodontitis, loose teeth, and oral pain. ## Causes The exact cause is unknown. Mechanical stress on the periodontal ligament is hypothesized as an initiating factor. It is seen almost exclusively in horses over 15 years of age. ## Diagnosis Oral examination reveals bulbous, discolored, or loose incisors. Radiographs show resorption and hypercementosis. Pain on palpation is common. ## Treatment Extraction of affected teeth is the definitive treatment and provides marked pain relief. Staged extractions are often performed. No medical therapy halts progression. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent for comfort after extraction. Horses adapt well to eating without incisors. ## Prevention None known. Regular dental examinations in older horses allow early detection.
painful or loose incisors; difficulty grasping feed; weight loss; bulbous tooth roots; reluctance to accept the bit
## Overview Equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis (EOTRH) is a painful progressive disease of the incisor and canine teeth in older horses. Odontoclasts resorb dental tissue, followed by excessive cementum deposition. It causes periodontitis, loose teeth, and oral pain. ## Causes The exact cause is unknown. Mechanical stress on the periodontal ligament is hypothesized as an initiating factor. It is seen almost exclusively in horses over 15 years of age. ## Diagnosis Oral examination reveals bulbous, discolored, or loose incisors. Radiographs show resorption and hypercementosis. Pain on palpation is common. ## Treatment Extraction of affected teeth is the definitive treatment and provides marked pain relief. Staged extractions are often performed. No medical therapy halts progression. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent for comfort after extraction. Horses adapt well to eating without incisors. ## Prevention None known. Regular dental examinations in older horses allow early detection.
painful or loose incisors; difficulty grasping feed; weight loss; bulbous tooth roots; reluctance to accept the bit