Rabbit Dentition - Veterinary Assistant Flashcards
Enamel
thin but strong protective outer covering
Dentin
supports the structure of enamel
Pulp
consists of connective tissue, blood vessels and cells
Hypsodont teeth (seen in rabbits, cows, horses)
teeth that grow throughout an animals life - high-crowned teeth, enamel extends past gum line
Brachydont teeth (seen in people)
teeth that do not continue to grow throughout a persons life (continue to grow with some rodents) - low-crowned, short teeth
Monophydont
an animal with only one set of teeth which are permanent
Diphyodont
an animal with two sets of teeth - deciduous set and permanent set
Rabbits have _________ dentition
diphyodont
How many deciduous teeth do baby rabbits have?
16 - they lose these after a few months
How many permanent teeth do rabbits have?
28 adult teeth
T or F: The deciduous and permanent teeth of rabbit form true roots
false
How many incisors do rabbits have?
6 total - 2 small upper auxiliary incisors/ “peg teeth”
How many premolars do rabbits have?
10 total
How many molars do rabbits have?
12 total
Premolars/molars are often referred to as what?
cheek teeth
Dental formula
I2/1, C0/0, P3/2, and M3/3 = 28
What’s it called when an animal has different shapes/sizes of teeth?
heterodonts
How many inches do heterodonts grow anually?
3-5 inches
What is the space between the incisors and premolars called?
diastema
Mastication
chewing - premolars and molars grind down plant material
Crown of a tooth
covered with enamel - above gum line
Root of a tooth
part of tooth below the gums which keeps tooth in place
Malocclusions
imperfect positioning/meeting of teeth when jaw is closed
homodonts
an animal with teeth of the same shape/sizes