Explanation should include

• the anatomy of the tooth, including the differences among a feline, canine, and equine tooth
• differences in prehension, mastication, and swallowing among species (e.g., carnivores crush, herbivores grind in a circular motion)
• the importance of dental care in animals
• signs of poor oral health
• evidence-based veterinary recommendations for home dental care.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What problems could poor oral health in animals cause? Why?
• What are signs of dental disease?
• What might clients describe during an exam that would be associated with periodontal disease?
• Why should antlers, hooves, and similar products be avoided?
• How do the teeth of carnivores differ from herbivores?
• Why should clients avoid the use of human dentifrices when caring for their pets’ teeth?
• Why is anesthesia essential for dental prophylaxis?