What does 'dentistry' in veterinary medicine encompass?

The term 'dentistry' in veterinary medicine fundamentally refers to the diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases in animals. It encompasses a wide range of services and procedures related to oral health, including the examination of teeth and gums, identification and treatment of dental diseases such as periodontal disease, performing cleanings, extractions, root canals, and addressing oral tumors.

Unlike the narrow definition of the extraction of teeth, which is just one specific procedure, veterinary dentistry is comprehensive, covering both preventive and therapeutic aspects of care. Additionally, while oral health education for pet owners is important and contributes to overall veterinary care, it is not itself a part of the clinical practice defined as dentistry. Likewise, limiting the scope to only preventative care for young animals excludes the necessary treatment of dental conditions that can affect animals of all ages. Thus, the broad and inclusive definition of veterinary dentistry makes the second choice the most accurate representation of the field.