Diastemata are abnormal spaces between cheek teeth. Feed packing into these spaces leads to fermentation and putrefaction with a resultant periodontitis. Pain, hyperemia, and gingival recession can be seen early in the disease process. Treatment at this stage can prevent the development of further pathology and restitution of normal tissue. Diastema drilling (or burring) is a technique designed to widen the interproximal spaces between teeth to promote "cycling" of feed through the space and preventfermentation. The case series shows successful use of this new technique involving 24 diastemata in nine horses.
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