Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to evaluate the anatomy and physiology of the equine head, with specific reference to how the teeth and related dental structures can affect equine health.
The unit applies to individuals who use practical skills and knowledge to provide dental care to ensure the health and efficient physiological function of equine dentition.
Legislative and regulatory requirements, including work health and safety and animal welfare, apply to the scope of work of equine dental service providers, and vary according to state/territory jurisdictions. Users must check with the relevant regulatory authority before delivery.
NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) generally have the same meaning in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the national model WHS legislation has not been implemented, RTOs must contextualise the unit of competency by referring to current OHS legislative requirements.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Evaluate the impact of dental and oral health on digestion and nutrient absorption | 1.1 Identify and describe structures of the head that relate to prehension, mastication, swallowing and digestion 1.2 Identify and describe functions of the head and oral structures in relation to prehension, mastication, swallowing and digestion, and general health 1.3 Analyse the relationship between muscular structure, dental occlusion and masticatory action 1.4 Determine changes in the skull and oro-pharynx due to age, disease and injury 1.5 Evaluate other factors affecting oral function and digestive processes 1.6 Define and identify consequences of poor oral health on equine physiology and nutrient absorption |
2. Evaluate the impact of dental and oral conditions on equine health | 2.1 Identify and describe dental and oral trauma and their possible causes 2.2 Identify and describe other acquired dental and oral conditions 2.3 Identify and describe dental congenital and genetic abnormalities 2.4 Identify and describe other abnormal conditions 2.5 Evaluate potential impacts and consequences on general health of dental injuries, diseases and abnormalities |
3. Evaluate the impact of unskilled or inappropriate dental care on equine health | 3.1 Evaluate and describe potential consequences of the absence of dental care on the health of the horse or other equine 3.2 Identify and describe the consequences of unskilled or inappropriate dental techniques and treatments 3.3 Describe the implications of leaving tooth root fragments behind after extraction 3.4 Describe the consequences of excessive or inappropriate filing (floating) on the teeth and associated structures and the impact on the masticatory function 3.5 Identify other possible causes of dental and/or oral damage or disease and describe the consequences |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Reading | Analyse complex references, anatomical diagrams and other resources relevant to equine dental and oral conditions from a variety of sources and consolidate information |
Get the work done | Use problem solving techniques to analyse health impacts of equine oral condition using oral examination information and other resources |
Sectors
Equine Dentistry (EQD)