How regularly should I get my horses teeth checked? |
| The majority of horses and ponies will only need to have their teeth checked and floated (Rasped) annually, this will improve their dental health, their ridability and reduce the chance of major dental problems occurring. Although if you are completing your horse regulary or your horse have an known abnormality in their dental conformation 6 monthly checks are more adviseable. |
| Wolf teeth are a remant tooth from a time when horses had 7 molars, through evolution they have become completely unfunctional, and can cause horses problems when a bit is placed in their mouths. Not all horses will have wolf teeth, but if they do they erupt at around 2 years of age. I recommend that wolf teeth are always removed before the horse is bited. Removing them will mean that problems associated with these teeth are drastically reduced. |
| Remember - Most horses will only show signs of dental problems once they have become severe, so regular checks up are essential. Teeth many not always be the cause of these problems and may require veterinary attention. |
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At what age should I start getting my horses teeth looked at? |
It is ideal to familarise your horse to having their teeth checked at as young a age as possible, ideally horses should have their first full dental examination at around 2 years 8 months. This is when the majority of horses loose their first set of caps (Milk Teeth). Having them checked at this time will reduce the chances of problems occurring like retained caps, problems that occur during capping can affect your horses dental health for the rest of their lives. |
What are the signs that my horse may have dental problems? |
Things to look for that may indicate a malocclusion or dental problems are:
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Changes in temperament – high head carriage, head shaking, etc. |
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Poor coat and body condition |
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Abnormal swelling around the head |
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Presence of food or semi chewed food or hay on the floor (Quidding) |
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Large particles of undigested food in the faeces |
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Packing of feed in the mouth |
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Bad breath or sucking noises when chewing |
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