Macrodont Teeth in Guinea Pigs (Cavia porcellus)

Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract. 2025 Sep;28(3):629-643. doi: 10.1016/j.cvex.2025.05.004. Epub 2025 Jun 12.

Abstract

Macrodontia in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) is a dental anomaly characterized by abnormal tooth enlargement and structural alterations that bear resemblance to odontoma. This review synthesizes current literature regarding the morphologic, histologic, and radiological aspects of the condition. Detailed examinations reveal that macrodontic changes affect both the crown and pulp, often leading to malocclusion, impaired mastication, and the formation of sharp edges on the tooth surface that irritate the oral mucosa. Overall, the complex presentation of macrodontia in guinea pigs underscores the need for further research into its pathogenesis and the optimization of treatment protocols.

Keywords: Apical elongation; Cheek teeth; Dental disease; Guinea pig; Incisors; Macrodont teeth; Macrodontia; Molars.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Guinea Pigs / abnormalities
  • Rodent Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Rodent Diseases* / diagnostic imaging
  • Rodent Diseases* / pathology
  • Tooth Abnormalities* / diagnostic imaging
  • Tooth Abnormalities* / pathology
  • Tooth Abnormalities* / veterinary