Abstract
Endodontic disease, or pathology affecting the pulp tissue of teeth, is a commonly treated condition in human and veterinary dentistry. Reports of dental pathology in wild and managed populations of pinniped species include malformed teeth, supernumerary teeth, attrition, fractures involving the crown and/or root, periapical lesions, periodontal disease, and malocclusion.1-4,6-8 In a population of California sea lions at the Navy Marine Mammal Program, dental pathology commonly seen by clinicians included tooth fractures and abrasions. Occasionally, purulent exudate was observed from the pulp chamber of affected teeth. Periapical abscesses, identified via voluntary oral radiography techniques, usually occurred secondary to these findings. In 4 animals, endodontic restoration techniques were used to treat the abscessed teeth.5 One to two years later, draining tracts associated with some of the treated teeth developed, along with evidence of periapical abscessation on repeat radiographs. In 2 animals, dental extractions of abscessed teeth were performed. Recheck radiographs showed healed extraction sites. The pathophysiology of endodontic disease seen in this population of California sea lions indicates extraction of the affected teeth is the appropriate treatment. Potential sequelae of untreated endodontic disease include osteomyelitis and hematogenous spread of bacteria to other organ systems.3,6 Successful identification and intervention of endodontic disease in managed populations of California sea lions may improve quality of life and decrease the occurrence of sequelae associated with endodontic disease.
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the trainers, veterinary technicians, and veterinarians at the Navy Marine Mammal Program, especially the U.S. Army Animal Care Specialists, for their assistance with the treatment and care of the animals. A special thanks to those who have contributed to these cases, including, but not limited to Drs. Cynthia Smith, Stephen Cassle, Nate Daughenbaugh, Elizabeth Hoffman, Steven Holmstrom, Dave Fagan, James Oosterhuis, and Sam Ridgway.
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