Elements and Performance Criteria
- Evaluate the impact of dental and oral health on digestion and nutrient absorption
- Identify and describe structures of the head that relate to prehension, mastication, swallowing and digestion
- Identify and describe functions of the head and oral structures in relation to prehension, mastication, swallowing and digestion, and general health
- Analyse the relationship between muscular structure, dental occlusion and masticatory action
- Determine changes in the skull and oro-pharynx due to age, disease and injury
- Evaluate other factors affecting oral function and digestive processes
- Define and identify consequences of poor oral health on equine physiology and nutrient absorption
- Evaluate the impact of dental and oral conditions on equine health
- Identify and describe dental and oral trauma and their possible causes
- Identify and describe other acquired dental and oral conditions
- Identify and describe dental congenital and genetic abnormalities
- Identify and describe other abnormal conditions
- Evaluate potential impacts and consequences on general health of dental injuries, diseases and abnormalities
- Evaluate the impact of unskilled or inappropriate dental care on equine health
- Evaluate and describe potential consequences of the absence of dental care on the health of the horse or other equine
- Identify and describe the consequences of unskilled or inappropriate dental techniques and treatments
- Describe the implications of leaving tooth root fragments behind after extraction
- Describe the consequences of excessive or inappropriate filing (floating) on the teeth and associated structures and the impact on the masticatory function
- Identify other possible causes of dental and/or oral damage or disease and describe the consequences