Odontodystrophy

Introduction

This condition is a consequence of abnormalities occuring during the period of tooth eruption. It invloves damage to ameloblasts (which form enamel) in utero, which upsets permanent incisor formation. The condition Enamel is marked by pits and lines etc.

In ruminants damage to enamel formation most often caused by fluoride poisoning and is seen in cattle grazing on pasture contaminated by cement works effluent.

In dogs,

Enamal hypoplasia may occur following a Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) infection during tooth development (Courtesy of Alun Williams (RVC))

. This is a very severe systemic disease seen early in life or in utero in dogs.

Clinical Signs

In ruminants, one will see a chalky mottling and yellow brown pitting of tooth, due to enamel hypoplasia. There is usually no difficulty in mastication detected and the animal is clinically well.

In dogs, CDV causing enamel hypoplasia, may result in severe discoloration or pitting of teeth due to effect on enamel formation. (e.g. distemper in dog)

Diagnosis

Clinical signs are diagnositc, plus history e.g. of CDV in dogs, fluoride in cattle.

Treatment and Control

There is no treatment for this condition. Control measures are prevention of the casues of the disease, e.g. vaccination against CDV and prevention of fluoride poisoning in cattle.

References

Tutt, C., Deeprose, J. and Crossley, D. (2007) BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Dentistry (3rd Edition), British Small Animal Veterinary Association.
Williams, A (2008) Alimentary System Study Guide, Royal Veterinary College.