Dental alterations in young Quarter Horse

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of dental alterations in 100 young Quarter Horses aged between 6 and 48 months, sourced from various breeding farms. The animals were divided into four age groups: Group I (6–12 months), Group II (12–24 months), Group III (25–36 months), and Group IV (37–48 months). The identified alterations were documented using an oral-dental mapping form. The primary dental changes observed in this study included the presence of excessive dental enamel points, eruption of the first premolar, limited and asymmetrical lateral excursions, buccal or lingual ulcerations, ramps, caudal hooks, rostral hooks, and steps. Among these alterations, excessive dental enamel points were the most commonly observed in the analyzed samples. The high prevalence of enamel points highlights the importance of preventive and intervention strategies to minimize the negative impact of these alterations on oral health and foal development.