Problems with dental equipment and materials

The proper selection of dental equipment and materials is of absolute importance in the successful practice of veterinary dentistry. Improper equipment can make a difficult procedure more time consuming or impossible to perform. Materials must be selected that can withstand the oral environment and biting forces of the animal. The purpose of this chapter is not to recommend specific products, but rather to increase the reader's basic understanding of the application and limitations of dental equipment and materials. With better comprehension of the properties of the materials, the veterinary dentist should be able to intelligently select products that will fit the specific needs of his or her veterinary dental practice.