Very Common
OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED
Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.
Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.
Your vet may diagnose
Abscessed or Infected Molar, Periapical Abscess
Summary
Abscessed cheek teeth are quite common in middle aged horses, but can occur in horses of any age. The most common observations commonly associated with it are swelling of the face or jaw and drainage of pus (draining tracts) from somewhere on the face or jaw.
Bacterial infection can track up the tooth in a variety of ways. If one of the rear upper molars (cheek teeth) is affected, infection of the sinuses may develop, which appears as one-sided, usually smelly nasal discharge.
Bacterial infection can track up the tooth in a variety of ways. If one of the rear upper molars (cheek teeth) is affected, infection of the sinuses may develop, which appears as one-sided, usually smelly nasal discharge.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
Very Common
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
Prognosis depends on a variety of factors including your horse's age and general health, as well as the severity and duration of the problem.Special considerations include whether the sinuses are involved, the amount of bone involved, and the effectiveness of surgical treatment.
my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Very Common
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Swelling on One Side of Head or Face
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Discharge from One Nostril (White, Yellow or Green)
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Lump, Bump, Growth on Face or Head
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Face or Head Seems Swollen or Enlarged
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Foul Odor from Mouth or Face, Bad Breath
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Swelling on Side of Jowl or Cheek
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Drainage from Face or Head
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Lump, Bump, Growth on Jawbone or Under Jaw
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Swelling of Jaw or Under Jaw
Less Common
Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- What are the treatment options for this problem?
- What is the likelihood of recurrence after treatment?
- Why do you think this occurred?
Prevention
By taking excellent care of your horse's teeth, you reduce the likelihood of this stubborn problem. Your vet should conduct a dental exam as part of your horse's routine preventative healthcare plan.