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Evaluation of Apical Closure Status of Canine, Maxillary Fourth Premolar, and Mandibular First Molar Teeth Using
Charles Tewson1, Alexandra Mira1, Al Manning2
1Department of Dentistry, The Ralph Veterinary Referral Centre, Marlow, UK.
Journal of Veterinary Dentistry
|September 29, 2025
Summary
Tooth apical closure in dogs varies significantly, occurring between 7 and 18 months. This finding is crucial for planning endodontic surgery in canine patients, especially considering breed size and tooth type.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dentistry
- Comparative Anatomy
- Dental Radiology
Background:
- Accurate determination of tooth apical closure in dogs is vital for successful endodontic surgery planning.
- Previous research indicated apical closure typically occurs between 7 and 10 months of age.
- Significant variations in closure timing can impact treatment outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the precise timing and variation of apical closure in canine, maxillary fourth premolar, and mandibular first molar teeth in dogs.
- To establish a more comprehensive understanding of apical closure status based on age and breed size.
- To provide data that can refine endodontic treatment strategies for young canine patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 788 teeth from 149 dogs using computed tomography (CT) and dental radiography.
- Two independent examiners assessed apical closure status (open, inconclusive, closed).
- Data were analyzed considering tooth type, age, and patient weight (dogs over vs. under 25 kg).
Main Results:
- Fifty percent of all studied tooth apices achieved closure by 10 months of age, with 95% closure by 17 months.
- Mandibular first molars and maxillary fourth premolars showed earlier closure (95% by 7 months) compared to canine teeth (7-18 months).
- Larger dogs (>25 kg) exhibited earlier and narrower age ranges for apical closure (95% by 7-13 months) than smaller dogs (<25 kg) (95% by 8-17 months).
- Maxillary canine teeth demonstrated a higher prevalence of open apices at later ages compared to mandibular canine teeth.
Conclusions:
- Tooth apical closure in dogs exhibits greater variability (7-18 months) than previously reported.
- Age, tooth type, and patient size are critical factors influencing apical closure timing.
- These findings necessitate adjustments in endodontic therapy planning for young dogs to account for individual variations in apical development.
