Prevalence and characteristics of dental and periodontal disease in Western European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) admitted into an animal shelter in northwestern Germany

This data set was created during a study aiming to collect information on the prevalence and characteristics of dental and periodontal disease in Western European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) admitted into an animal shelter in northwestern Germany. Immediately upon arrival, information on hedgehog health and history was documented on an arrival protocol. Once the overall health status of the hedgehog allowed general anaesthesia, a full body examination, including a dental assessment, was conducted and documented on a veterinary examination protocol. Indices judging gingivitis, calculus, gingival recession, and tooth mobility were assessed and added up to an overall dental examination index representing the severity of the disease.