engleski

Some aspects of dental pathology in European badgers

European badgers (Meles meles) are carnivore species belonging to the family of Mustelidae. The dental formula of European badgers comprises 38 teeth aligned as I 3/3, C 1/1, P 4/4, M 1/2. However, a trend toward the reduction of teeth is visible by the fact that majority of badgers lack P1, which was observed in just one case. Furthermore, despite the fact that badgers are originally carnivores, flattened occlusal surface of their molars indicate them as omnivorous species. Close macroscopic examination of the fifteen European badger skulls revealed high frequency of complicated crown fracture of both mandibular and maxillar canines. Fractures of other teeth, incisors, molars and premolars were also observed. In one case, complete destruction of the right P4 and surrounding alveolar bone was observed, most probably as a consequence of abscess derived from complicated tooth fracture and spread of infection to the surrounding bone. On the same specimen, a draining channel was observed bellow the right mandibular canine. Other important observations include the reaction of alveolar bone to periodontal processes (indicated as increased roughness), misalignment of both I2, and dental calculus. We did not observe horizontal bands of enamel hypoplasia despite the fact that mustelids are prone to CDV infections.

European badger; tooth fracture; alveolar bone reaction; periodontal processes

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