Elements and Performance Criteria
- Identify the structures and determine the function of the equine oral cavity
- Define structures within the oral cavity by name and location from embryonic (or foetal) to mature equine
- Describe the functions of oral cavity structures
- Analyse and define structures and body systems that affect growth and health of oral structures and their functions
- Describe and relate the process of prehension and mastication of food to normal oral function including the influence of different food types
- Relate the prehensile and masticatory function to teeth types
- Identify and classify equine teeth by name and location using established equine dental formulae and terminology
- Identify structures of equine teeth and periodontium by name and location
- Identify and define stages of development and eruption of equine teeth
- Identify normal development and eruption
- Identify abnormalities of development and eruption
- Define the function of individual equine teeth
- Age the horse by interpreting tooth eruption, dental wear patterns and tooth angles
- Identify and define stages of equine dental eruption and age indicators
- Determine incisor angles in relation to age and define the variables that affect this assessment
- Identify and define occlusal wear and shape of teeth throughout horse life
- Estimate the age of the horse based on presence or absence of deciduous and permanent teeth, wear patterns, tooth form and tooth angles
- Document tooth status and oral conditions using accepted industry notation methods