Root Caries related PeriApical Abscess in a Cape Hunting Dog


capehuntiondog_01View of dog during anesthesia induction.

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Red Pointer indicates location of recurrent fistulating abscess below right eye.


 

capehuntiondog_03Intra-oral view of maxillary right 1st molar. Notice this tooth presents a near perfect clinical crown without any sign of caries or fracture.

capehuntiondog_04View of pre-packaged dental film in position within the oral cavity ready for exposure by x-ray.


 

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X-ray image of molar tooth reveals significant apical abscessation involving both mesial and distal tooth roots.

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Creating a “surgical moat” around tooth underneath a retracted full thickness muco-gingival soft tissue flap in order to facilitate removal of the tooth with minimal bony trauma using a high speed dental hand-piece with a cross cut fissure bur.


 

capehuntiondog_07View of freshly extracted molar tooth. Notice root caries at red arrow, confirming the fact that the apical abscess involving this tooth would NOT be resolvable with endodontic therapy alone.

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View of extraction site while removing mass of infected soft tissue surrounding mesial root. Note: All of this infected tissue MUST be removed to fresh, clean bone in order to insure proper healing of the extraction site.


 

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View of extraction site sutured closed to protect Bioglass, particulate bone graft materal within.