High-Tech / High-Performance Equine Dentistry
After years of de-emphasizing equine dentistry, veterinary medicine has realized that we can make a great improvement in a horse's health and performance by taking better care of their mouths. From this has come a greater understanding of how the mouth and bit work, and how to treat the problems and diseases that arise.
How Equine Teeth Work
Normal equine teeth continually erupt until approximately age 20. At the same time the tooth wears away as the horse chews. This cycle creates new grooves on the tooth surface — like the grooves on a horseshoer's rasp — that break down food. The constant creation of new grooves prevents the teeth from becoming dull. Problems occur when the teeth don't wear evenly, creating sharp edges that cut into the cheek and tongue. The veterinarian "floats" — smooths — these edges.
What's Different Today
The AAEP recommends that all horses have dentistry performed annually. Younger horses (under 12) should have dental care every 8 months. Modern tranquilizers allow thorough work on the entire mouth. Power floats, periodontal units, and intraoral X-ray systems allow work that was previously impossible.
The Performance Connection
The bit pushes the tongue and cheek against the sides of the teeth. If there are sharp edges, they cause pain — breaking down communication between horse and rider. An irritated horse that can't go forward comfortably won't perform to its full potential. Whether your horse is a competition animal or a lifelong companion, routine dental care makes a real difference.
— Dr. John Marion, Castlewood Canyon Equine