5 Questions
What is the dental star primarily composed of in equine incisor teeth?
Secondary dentin
Which indicator of age in equine incisor teeth is more variable and less reliable?
Lingual apex in middle incisors
In older horses, how does the curvature of the dental arch formed by the lower incisive tables change?
Semicircular to straight line
At what age do the marks disappear from the central incisors in equine teeth?
18 years
Which age-related change occurs in the angle between upper and lower incisors as horses age?
The angle becomes more acute
Study Notes
Age Estimation in Horses through Dental Examination
- Horses have hypsodont dentition, characterized by reserve crown length with continual eruption, which makes up for occlusal wear at a rate of approximately 2.5 mm/year until approximately 17 years of age.
Characteristics of Horse Teeth
- The lower incisors are the most suitable teeth for estimating age in horses.
- With continuous eruption, exposure of occlusal dentin and cementum leads to the presence of three alternate calcified tissues on the occlusal surface.
Deciduous and Permanent Dentition
- Deciduous incisors are smaller than permanent ones, with whiter surfaces, and have several small longitudinal ridges and grooves.
- Permanent incisors are larger, more rectangular in shape, and have crown surfaces largely covered with cement, giving a yellowish appearance.
Upper and Lower Incisors
- Upper incisors have two distinct longitudinal grooves on their labial surface.
- Lower incisors have only one longitudinal groove on their labial surface.
Radiographic Assessment
- Radiographic assessment of cheek teeth for root morphology in young horses can aid in age determination.
Variations and Limitations
- Dental appearances are subject to individual and breed variations, as well as differences in environmental conditions.
Test your knowledge on estimating the age of horses by examining their dentition, with a focus on hypsodont dentition and the most appropriate teeth for age estimation. Learn about the rate of occlusal wear and how it relates to age in horses.
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