Diastema Widening

There are different ways to treat diastema-induced periodontitis in horses. In cases where there has been none or limited response to remedial teeth floating and dietary adjustments, diastema widening may be warranted. Diastema widening is an effective treatment that aims to widen the space between two teeth, called the interdental space, so that forage does not become entrapped as the horse chews. There are two methods of diastema widening. The first method is described as complete widening, where the entire clinical crown height (down to the gingival margin) is widened. The second one is called partial widening, where only the occlusal 4 – 6 mm of the interdental space is widened. This procedure is often performed using motorized/ surgical dental burrs, with the horse adequately sedate, using oroscopic guidance. If performed incorrectly, diastema widening can damage the tooths nerve and blood supply. It is recommended that this procedure be performed in a controlled environment to avoid complications.

Diastemata and forage entrapment

Radiograph before and after widening procedure

Interdental space before and after treatment