DENTISTRY
Figure 2A . Advanced periodontal disease resulting in furcation exposure in a cat ' s right mandibular first molar .
Figure 3A . A congenital infolding enamel defect on the buccal surface of the right mandibular first molar .
Figure 2B . A through-and-through furcation exposure in a dog ' s right first molar .
Figure 3B . A radiograph confirming the defect and periapical lucency consistent with pulpal necrosis .
Figure 2C . A radiograph of the dog in Figure 2B confirming the furcation .
Congenital enamel infolding defects can also lead to furcation and endodontic disease . The resulting irregular furcation tooth surfaces do not allow for complete attachment of the periodontal ligament in the area . Additionally , in some of these congenital defect cases , the infolded enamel allows oral bacteria to enter the exposed root canal , leading to pulpal necrosis evidenced by periapical lucency on radiographs . When present , root canal therapy or extraction is indicated ( Figures 3A-3D ).
Figure 3C . A radiograph obtained after root canal therapy was used to correct the defect
Issue 06 | FEBRUARY 2017 | 32