The use of a '''headlight''' (a penlight torch is much less satisfactory), a '''dental mirror''', a long metal rod or ‘toothpick’ and a specialised metal basket can greatly facilitate visual examination of the equine mouth. Nevertheless, major problems, especially of the caudal upper and lower cheek teeth and of the adjacent periodontal membranes and gums, can easily be missed unless all the teeth and adjacent soft tissues (gums) are carefully palpated or a dental mirror is used. It is also useful to smell one’s hand after oral examination for the presence of '''foul odours''' which usually indicates '''anaerobic infections''', most commonly of the periodontal ligaments but also of the teeth themselves. | The use of a '''headlight''' (a penlight torch is much less satisfactory), a '''dental mirror''', a long metal rod or ‘toothpick’ and a specialised metal basket can greatly facilitate visual examination of the equine mouth. Nevertheless, major problems, especially of the caudal upper and lower cheek teeth and of the adjacent periodontal membranes and gums, can easily be missed unless all the teeth and adjacent soft tissues (gums) are carefully palpated or a dental mirror is used. It is also useful to smell one’s hand after oral examination for the presence of '''foul odours''' which usually indicates '''anaerobic infections''', most commonly of the periodontal ligaments but also of the teeth themselves. |