Tooth fracture evaluation and endodontic treatment in dogs

Tooth fractures constitute a considerable fraction of all tooth diseases. Out of 5370 dogs treated during four years, 492 (9%) patients were treated for dental problems. Out of this number, 139 (28.3%) dogs were treated for tooth fractures. The most frequently affected teeth were canines, 54 cases (38.8%) succeeded by 46 premolar teeth (33.1%), 36 incisors (25.9%) and 3 molars (2.2%). From among the patients with canine and incisor fractures, 61 (67.7%) were large breed dogs. Frontal teeth fractures occurred during training, guard and police work or in play. On the other hand, the premolar fractures (especially 108, 208) were divided evenly among large and medium (small) breeds. The results of nonsurgical endodontic treatment showed 100% success with incisors and canines. Periapical lesions were seen infrequently in the above-mentioned teeth. Out of 24 endodontically treated incisors and canines with necrotic pulp the periapical lesions were present only in 3 cases (12.5%). Fractures of upper fourth premolars were divided evenly among large (15 dogs with 18 fractures), medium (small) breeds (21 dogs with 23 fractures). Higher incidence of crown damage (fracture line reaching subgingival tooth portion) was observed in large breed dogs (82.3%) as compared to medium and small breeds (37.5%). X-ray examinations showed a high number of periapical lesions (37 - 90.2%). The distal root alone was involved in 20 teeth (48.8%). Radiolucencies in distal and mesial regions were observed in 11 teeth (26.8%). The mesial region was involved in 6 teeth (14.6%). All patients without local complications (swelling, fistula) were heated successfully (100%). Out of 12 cases accompanied with local complications (4 swellings, 8 fistulas) failure was recorded in 4 cases (33.3%). The fistulas were closed within one week. Despite a considerable incidence of root lesion the results of standard endodontic treatment were good. Standard root canal therapy, performed repeatedly following a relapse, yielded mostly good therapeutic results.