Black Rock Equine Clinic
Dr. Gary Fouts DVM
Dentistry
Horses have hypsodont teeth—their enamel extends beyond the gum line, which is continuously erupting. This provides extra material for wear and tear. Because each horse’s teeth wear differently, it’s best to have an annual dentistry checkup to determine whether their teeth need to be floated or not. Having an annual checkup is the only way to prevent dental problems. If the horse has uneven wear or missing teeth, it will most likely result in pain and discomfort. This can lead to weight loss, bit and riding issues, and difficulty eating.
1
Routine Float
Horses' teeth have a continuous eruption pattern, making routine care crucial for preventing pain, improving chewing efficiency, and avoiding health and behavioral issues like weight loss, poor performance, and resistance to a bit. As horses enter their Geriatric years, their dental needs should include annual dental exams for early detection and management of age-related issues like sharp points, loose or lost teeth, and periodontal disease.
2
Wolf Teeth Extraction
Wolf teeth are small, vestigial teeth located in the front of a horse's mouth. They are usually not functional and can cause problems, such as:
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Interference with the bit: Wolf teeth can interfere with the bit, causing discomfort and pain for the horse.
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Ulceration: Wolf teeth can rub against the gums and cause ulcers.
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Infection: Wolf teeth can become infected, especially if they are broken or loose.
3
Cap Removal
A horse sheds 24 caps as its permanent teeth come in, a process that usually happens between the ages of 2.5 and 4.5 years. Sometimes, caps become "retained" and do not fall out naturally. The retained baby teeth (caps) can be removed using specialized dental forceps to allow the eruption of the permanent teeth
