Etiology: Malocclusion occurs when the incisors overgrow because the mandibular and maxillary teeth are not normally aligned and do not properly occlude.
Incidence: The incidence of malocclusion is common, approximately 1% of aged Wistar rats are affected[1].
Clinical signs: Rats may have a poor body condition and evidence of poor growth. Incisors are overgrown and misaligned.
Diagnosis: Malocclusion is readily diagnosed by an oral examination.
1. Tucker, M.J., Diseases Of The Wistar Rat1997, 1900 Frost Road, Suite 101, Bristol, PA 19007: Taylor & Francis.