Understanding EOTRH: Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis

Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis (EOTRH) is a complex dental condition that affects many older horses, often leading to significant pain and discomfort. The term may sound daunting, but understanding EOTRH is crucial for horse owners and caregivers.

What is EOTRH?

EOTRH is a progressive dental disease characterized by the resorption of tooth structure and the abnormal deposition of cementum on the roots of teeth. This condition primarily affects older horses, typically those aged 15 years and older, and can go unnoticed for some time. The slow progression of the disease means that owners may not immediately recognize that something is wrong.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Horses with EOTRH may exhibit a range of subtle symptoms, including:

• Difficulty eating or chewing

• Changes in temperament, such as increased aggression or irritability

• Signs of colic

• Unwillingness to be handled or have their hooves trimmed

Due to the gradual onset of these symptoms, they can be mistaken for normal behavioral traits, leading to underdiagnosis.

Diagnosing EOTRH requires radiographic examination. X-rays can reveal the extent of tooth damage and identify which teeth need to be extracted. Not all cases are severe, and some horses may only have mild symptoms that do not necessitate immediate extraction.

Treatment and Prognosis

The primary treatment for moderate to severe EOTRH is the extraction of affected teeth. Many horse owners feel overwhelmed when they learn their horse may need multiple extractions. However, the majority of horses experience significant improvements in quality of life post-surgery.

Horses that undergo tooth extractions often show improvements in behavior and overall health. Issues like eating difficulties and temperamental changes frequently resolve after the painful teeth are removed. It’s important to note that the surgery can be performed with the horse standing and sedated, eliminating the need for general anesthesia.

Age Considerations

A common concern among owners is the age of their horse. While older horses are more likely to develop EOTRH, this should not deter owners from pursuing treatment. Just as we wouldn’t ignore a heart issue in an elderly person, dental problems in older horses deserve attention. Many horses in their mid to late 20s can have successful surgeries and enjoy a significantly improved quality of life afterward.

Types of EOTRH Lesions

There are three main types of lesions associated with EOTRH:

1. Resorptive Lesions: These are often the most painful and involve the loss of tooth structure.

2. Hypercementotic Lesions: These involve excessive cementum deposition and tend to be less painful than resorptive lesions.

3. Mixed Lesions: These exhibit characteristics of both resorptive and hypercementotic types.

Identifying the specific type of lesion is crucial for determining the appropriate course of treatment.

Conclusion

EOTRH is a painful condition that can severely impact a horse’s quality of life. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, including tooth extraction, many horses can experience significant relief and return to their normal behaviors. If your horse is diagnosed with EOTRH, it’s essential to work closely with your veterinarian to assess the situation and make informed decisions about treatment.

For those facing the diagnosis of EOTRH in their horses, remember: addressing this painful condition can lead to remarkable changes, and many owners have witnessed their horses thrive after treatment. Don’t hesitate to reach out to veterinary professionals for guidance and support during this process.