As continuously growing (Elodont) teeth are being formed throughout life, anything (metabolic disease, teratogens, vitamin or mineral imbalances, natural and unnatural forces, trauma, inflammation and infection) affecting histodifferentiation, growth, maturation, matrix secretion or mineralisation has the potential to cause developmental dental disease at any age. This and the continuous growth itself means that there are a range of problems that have to be considered in these species that do not occur in species with teeth of limited growth (eg. man, dog and cat). The physiology of continuously growing teeth requires that the teeth are worn at the natural rate for maintenance of normal tooth form and function. It is not possible for normal tooth wear rates to be achieved on the diets fed to most captive rabbits so the effect of lack of tooth wear is a major problem in practice, especially in rabbits and other elodont herbivores that are fed concentrate rations. The ongoing growth of continuously growing teeth rapidly results in coronal elongation, which holds the mouth open at rest and increased occlusal contact and both increasing and prolonging application of occlusal pressure. This opposes and can arrest eruption with knock-on consequences at the growing tooth apex. Many factors affect the range and degree of each effect.
Crossley, D. A.: Causes And Treatment of Malocclusion In The Rabbit
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