Elements and Performance Criteria
- Conduct pre-examination procedures
- Horse health, injury and use history is obtained
- Reasons for equine dental appointment are clarified and more appropriate options outlined to the owner or carer if necessary
- Basic assessment of condition, muscle tone and balance is conducted and documented
- Features of head and neck anatomy are identified and general function is assessed
- The behaviour of the horse and response to general handling is assessed, evaluated and documented
- Conduct oral and dental examination
- Safety considerations for the performance of oral inspection of the horse are identified and safety protocols applied
- 2.2 The horse's head is inspected for symmetry, swellings or other abnormalities
- Rostro-caudal and lateral excursion range of motion of the mandible are assessed (under sedation if required) and the need for referral assessed
- Incisors are inspected and assessed for evidence of pathology which may impact on speculum use and may require referral
- Molars and incisors are inspected for level of occlusion and the need for referral assessed
- The oral cavity is rinsed with water and speculum is fitted in accordance with required industry standards
- Oral structures are examined by palpation and then visually inspected with the aid of a focal light source and mirror
- All teeth are assessed for normal and abnormal features related to position, alignment, wear, and angulations and the need for referral
- Mouth and teeth are inspected for conditions which fit within the parameters of routine dental correction and oral procedures
- Speculum is removed and mouth is rinsed
- Provide post-inspection assessment and advice
- Prioritise dental issues
- Select dental treatment strategy
- Owner or carer requested or proposed treatments are discussed in the context of ethical considerations, optimal comfort and dental care for the horse
- Treatment options are ranked based on optimal outcomes for the horse and other relevant considerations
- Treatment strategy is prepared based on examination findings
- Stages and timing of treatment are planned and documented
- 5.5 Treatment strategy is put in place based on provider's professional and personal scope and the need for referral to veterinarians or other appropriate service providers
- Discuss dental treatment strategy
- Treatment strategies are evaluated with qualified equine dental service providers, veterinarians or other appropriate service providers as required
- Significance of dental conditions found during examination is explained to the owner or carer and treatment strategies are discussed.
- Post treatment care and need for monitoring horse is explained to the owner or carer
- Consent to treatment plan is confirmed with the owner or carer