Dentistry
Core concepts
Candidates must know dental anatomy - the tooth structure (enamel, dentin, pulp, cementum), dental formulas, and the numbering systems (modified Triadan). Understand periodontal disease stages (gingivitis vs. periodontitis), plaque and calculus formation, and the role of home care. Know common procedures: oral examination, dental scaling and polishing (always under anesthesia), extractions, and dental radiography. Understand why hand scaling without polishing and irrigation is discouraged, and the importance of pre-anesthetic workup for dental patients. Recognize common pathologies: periodontal pockets, resorptive lesions (especially in cats), fractured teeth with pulp exposure, and malocclusion.
Traps
Questions emphasize that dental cleaning requires general anesthesia - no "awake" scaling. Distinguish gingivitis (reversible, no attachment loss) from periodontitis (attachment loss, irreversible). Know that polishing removes micro-scratches that harbor plaque; skipping it is a trap. Watch for tooth numbering questions and species differences in dental formula.
Worked example / rule of thumb
Use the modified Triadan system: the first digit indicates the quadrant (1-4 for permanent, 5-8 for deciduous), the next two digits the tooth position. For example, 104 is the right maxillary canine. Rule of thumb: gingivitis = reversible; periodontitis = attachment loss and irreversible.
Study focus
Prioritize tooth structure, periodontal staging, the need for anesthesia, polishing rationale, and feline resorptive lesions. Know that dental radiographs are essential for diagnosing subgingival disease.