When Should Equine Dental Care Begin ?

Foals should have their mouths examined soon after birth.  This will allow for any problems, possibly congenital to be dealt with and noted for future dental care.

How Often Does My Horse Need Dental Ckeckups ?

Routine dental care normally begins as a yearling, with the removal of wolf teeth, and the floating of sharp edges. After the initial visit, it is recommended that at least two visits a year be scheduled until five years of age when all the permanent teeth have erupted. After the age of five, the frequency of dental visits are determined on an individual basis usually once or twice a year.

What Are Signs That A Horse Needs Dental Care ?

A change in chewing habits is the most obvious sign of dental problems. The horse may dribble feed, soak feed in a water bucket, hold the head to one side when eating, or not eat at all.  Rather than chew with a painful mouth the horse may try to swallow before the chewing is complete. This may contribute to choke, colic and indigestion. Other signs of dental trouble include the presence of excess saliva, swelling of the face, halitosis, refusal to eat hard grain or coarse hay, bolting of grain and a loss of condition. In certain cases a horse may limit their intake of water which may result in serious harm to their overall general condition. Young and old horses are affected on an individual basis. A horse with dental problems may become very nervous and develop habits such as cribbing and stall weaving. Under saddle a horse may toss his head, lug, rear and generally be unsettled and unwilling to perform correctly and consistently.

How Can I Tell If  My Horse Needs Dental Care ?

You may be able to tell by observing your horse, is he trying to tell you something by his actions? Is he acting up when bridling or riding? Is he dropping feed, losing weight, does he have any visible sores in his mouth, does he chew to one side only?  Horses cannot tell their owners how they feel or what it wrong. Often times it is impossible to tell if your horse has dental problems without an examination by a trained veterinarian.

What Are The Benefits Of Routine Dental Care ?

Research shows that routine dental care and floating can increase the digestible energy by 20%. In addition studies have shown that horses’ teeth will wear and last five to ten years longer with proper maintenance.

Contact us today to determine a customized Dental Care Schedule for your Equine.