Work

Incisor overgrowth and molar malocclusion in Thaptomys nigrita (Rodentia: Sigmodontinae)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Rodents possess continuously growing incisors requiring balanced wear to avoid dental disorders. While common in captivity, dental anomalies are rarely reported in wild populations. This study reports cases in wild Thaptomys nigrita from three populations in southeastern Brazil, including the first record of incisor overgrowth in a wild sigmodontine. Morphological and age analyses revealed malocclusion, molar rotation, root exposure, interdental spacing, and alveolar bone loss, sometimes resembling periodontitis. Severe incisor hypertrophy was linked to trauma or occlusal imbalance. Findings suggest mechanical, traumatic, bacterial, or genetic origins, and indicate such anomalies may be more frequent in wild rodents than previously recognized.

Source: Mammalia

DOI: 10.1515/mammalia-2025-0110

Authors: Mariana de Paula Torres, Carolina Pires, Cibele R. Bonvicino

Institution: Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro

Language: English

Topic: Comparative Animal Anatomy Studies

Subfield: Urology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,712