Veterinary equine dentistry is an evolving field that plays a critical role in the overall health and performance of horses. Equine dental problems can significantly impact a horse's welfare - from subtle changes in behaviour to more overt difficulties in eating or ridden work.
As the understanding of equine oral health has advanced, so too have the tools used by veterinary professionals. Among the most significant technological advancements is the introduction and widespread use of the oroscope, a specialised oral endoscope designed for equine dentistry. This sophisticated tool has revolutionised how equine dental exams and procedures are conducted, greatly improving diagnostic ability and treatment outcomes.
In this blog post, we will explore the key benefits of using an oroscope, as well as how it is used to examine horses.
An oroscope is a type of endoscope specifically adapted for examination of the oral cavity of horses. Structurally, it is a slender tube equipped with a light source and a camera or optical system, allowing detailed real-time visualisation of the inside of the horse's mouth.
Traditional examinations, which have relied on speculums and headlamps, may limit our ability to detect deeper or more subtle dental problems even in the heavily sedated horse. The oroscope, equipped with a magnifying camera and light, allows us to inspect every tooth surface and surrounding tissues with precision.
There are several advantages to using an oroscope to examine a horse’s mouth, mostly relating to the quality of visualisation and real-time feedback:
After sedation and flushing out the mouth, we can use our oroscope before, during and after routine dentistry or as a diagnostic step when an issue has been identified. Images are saved and can be referenced during procedures, document the progression of lesions or for client communication to help you understand what is going on with your horse. This may be followed by odontoplasty (removal of sharp edges), further treatments or further diagnostics.
For horses, oroscopes mean a rapid and detailed level of examination and earlier diagnosis. You as an owner gain increased peace of mind and clearer understanding, while us as vets experience greater accuracy and a much more detailed level of examination. Oroscopy can lead us to recommend additional imaging such as radiography or even specialist referral.
However, oroscopy does require the horse to be adequately restrained and sedated, to prevent damage to the equipment as well as potential injury to horse, handler or vet.
Oroscopy requires investment in equipment and training for our vets. However, at Avonvale Equine Vet Practice, we believe in upskilling our whole team. As an independent equine vet practice, we invest in our team to ensure they remain up-to-date with the latest advances in equine veterinary medicine, so we can achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Our experienced and highly qualified ambulatory equine vets are well-equipped to carry out a range of routine and emergency procedures in the field, so your horse can be examined and treated in a calm and familiar environment. Our head office at Upton, near Banbury, is equipped with an in-house laboratory and dispensary, so we can process test results and prescriptions quickly.
Our reception team is committed to excellent customer service, and are always happy to help clients with queries. We will even process insurance claims at no additional charge, and keep you informed at all times.
