Root canal therapy in a German Shepherd dog

Fry, Dylan

Root canal therapy in a German Shepherd dog

Abstract

A 5 ½ year-old male German Shepherd dog was presented to the Dentistry Department of a veterinary referral center in November 2010 for evaluation of multiple fractured teeth. The dog was actively training in bite work, and therefore needed appropriate treatment to preserve its teeth and their function. The patient had no significant historical health concerns. A general physical examination revealed an apparently healthy dog. An oral exam revealed 4 fractured teeth with pulp exposure, marked abrasion in a cage-biting pattern on 1 tooth, and abrasion of 23 other teeth due to aggressive bite work. Intraoral radiographs revealed periapical lucencies at all fractured teeth consistent with endodontic disease. A full restorative dental plan was formulated to take place over the following year and a half. Treatment included root canal therapy on the 4 fractured teeth, full stainless steel crowns on 1 teeth, and a stainless steel ¾ crown on one tooth. With the appropriate root canal therapy, all periapical lesions were resolved at following recheck appointments. Crowns were custom-cast and placed as the final step in this treatment plan in February of 2012. The patient returned to active duty. This paper will discuss pertinent dental anatomy, etiology, diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis of endodontic disease as a result of tooth fracture.

Journal / Series

Senior seminar paper
Seminar SF601.1 2013

Date Issued

2013-04-03

Keywords

Dogs -- Diseases -- Treatment -- Case studies

Types

term paper