FASAVA Congress 2017

It is common for young animals to be presented to the veterinary clinic in their first year of life for general health checks. Assessment of the oral cavity during these visits is important as it allows any oral pathology to be identified and treated early, minimising the likelihood of permanent disease or discomfort. General practitioners should feel comfortable in recognising normal deciduous dentition and the developmental changes that occur in the first year of life.
Common juvenile dental conditions include malocclusion, eruption failure, crown fractures, and persistent deciduous teeth.  Approach to treatment is similar to adult dentistry but greater care and attention to detail is required. Radiography is critical to assessment and successful treatment. Juvenile dentistry is a part of good general practice.