Pediatric Veterinary Dentistry – They Are Not Just ‘Baby’ Teeth

The presentation will cover the recognition of pediatric dental anatomy in canine and feline patients, including the normal transition to adult dentition, along with potential complications during this critical developmental stage. It will also address occlusal evaluation, classification of malocclusions, identification of tooth and soft tissue injuries, and available treatment options.

Learning objectives:

1. Memorize dental formulas, tooth numbers, and deciduous tooth morphology for pediatric dentition in the dog and cat.
2. Understand typical eruption schedules for deciduous and adult dentition in dogs and cats.
3. Create a deeper understanding of dental malocclusions and recognize ways to advocate for patients' comfortable and pain-free mouth closure.
4. Gain a basic understanding of the angle classification system to classify occlusions in veterinary patients. Using the angle classification system creates a better understanding of evaluating and documenting canine and feline patients for malocclusions.
5. Understand the distinction between atraumatic and traumatic occlusions and their implications for the patient.