Clinical PagesElephants
Home > Clinical Pages > Elephants > Molars > Degenerative Conditions

Degenerative Conditions

If elephants are fed a coarse diet at an early age, premature wear of the occlusal surface of the molars may take place. This can cause pulp exposure, pulp necrosis and facial sinus tract discharging because of the resultant periapical abscess.

Each case must be judged on its merit whether extraction of the infected segment or partial endodontics is the most appropriate form of therapy.

Degenerative Conditions

Mandibular abscess discharging extra-orally. (African female 4 years old)

Degenerative Conditions

Intra-oral view of the pulp cavity exposure and purulent discharge at the gingival sulcus.

Degenerative Conditions

Radiograph illustrating the area of periapical radiolucency.


<< Back to main Molars page