Causes, examination and treatment of dental disease in rabbits
Jennifer Hamlin
Monday, April 1, 2013
There are numerous dental problems that can affect rabbits including tooth root abscesses, periodontitis, jaw abnormalities, caries, and traumatic injury, however, the most common problems are malocclusions and most of these can be attributed to lack of wear and tooth elongation. Dental disease can be pronounced with visible protrusion of overgrown incisors, but often disease can only be assumed by observing clinical signs such as anorexia, weight loss, swelling of the jaw, hypersalivation, and an inability to fully close the mouth. The incidence of dental disease is very high so rabbits should be routinely examined for evidence of dental disease. Veterinary nurses should also actively educate clients about dental disease including preventative care, correct husbandry and routine observations for signs indicating early onset disease.
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