Horse Dental Care: How to Find a Qualified Horse Dentist

Horse Dental Care

Just like humans, our equine friends require horse dental care. Neglecting your horse’s teeth can lead to a host of problems, from difficulty eating to behavioural issues under the saddle. In fact, many common riding problems can be traced back to dental discomfort.

So in this blog post, we’ll talk about everything equine dental care, including how to find a qualified horse dentist.

Dental Anatomy of Horses

Horses have a unique dental anatomy that sets them apart from other animals. 

Their teeth are designed for a life of constant grazing, with a special type of tooth called hypsodont that continuously erupts throughout their lifetime. 

This means that without proper care, horses can develop sharp edges and uneven wear patterns that cause pain and interfere with their ability to chew properly.

Another interesting fact about horse teeth? They’re composed of four distinct layers: pulp, dentin, enamel, and cementum. 

Each layer has a role in maintaining dental health, but they’re also susceptible to damage if not properly maintained.

Signs Your Horse May Need Dental Care 

As prey animals, horses are masters at hiding pain. However, there are some telltale signs that your horse may be experiencing dental discomfort.

Behavioural Changes

  • Resistance to bridling or bitting
  • Head tossing or shaking, especially when ridden
  • Difficulty chewing or “quidding” (dropping partially chewed food)
  • Aggression or anxiety during eating

Physical Symptoms 

In addition to behavioural changes, there are some physical symptoms that indicate dental problems:

  • Excessive salivation or drooling
  • Foul odour from the mouth or nostrils
  • Swelling or discharge around the face or jaw
  • Undigested feed in the manure

Performance Issues

Dental pain can also manifest as performance problems under the saddle. 

If your normally cooperative horse suddenly starts resisting collection, lugging on one rein, or tossing its head, it may be trying to tell you that its teeth hurt.

Other ridden signs of dental discomfort include:

  • Bucking or rearing
  • Refusing jumps
  • Difficulty maintaining a consistent frame
  • Resisting turns to one side

Regular Dental Check-ups

So, how often should you be scheduling those equine dental check-ups? 

The answer depends a bit on your horse’s age and individual needs. 

As a general rule of thumb, an annual dental exam is a good starting point for most adult horses. 

Think of it like your own yearly trip to the dentist – prevention is key!

For younger horses, those under 5 years old, you might need to bump that up to every 6 months. They’ve got a lot going on in those mouths as they transition from baby to permanent teeth. 

Older horses, especially those over 20, may also benefit from more frequent exams to catch any age-related issues.

Of course, your equine dentist will give you personalized recommendations based on your horse’s unique dental situation. Some performance horses may need check-ins as often as every 3-6 months to stay in tip-top shape.

The key is working with your vet or equine dental technician to find the right schedule for your horse.

What to Expect During a Dental Examination

When the day of the dental exam arrives, you might be wondering what exactly goes on when the vet or equine dentist peers inside your horse’s mouth. 

Let’s walk through a typical appointment so you know what to anticipate.

  1. First off, expect some questions about your horse’s eating habits, any riding or behavioural issues you’ve noticed, and their dental history. This helps paint a picture of your horse’s overall oral health.
  2. Then, it’s time to take a peek inside. Most horses will get a bit of sedation to help them relax and allow for a thorough exam. Using a special mouth speculum, your vet or equine dentist will rinse out your horse’s mouth and visually examine all the structures including teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks. They’re looking for any abnormalities like sharp points, hooks, uneven wear, or signs of disease.
  3. Depending on the findings, your horse may need some dental floating (filing down sharp or uneven areas) or other treatments. But don’t worry, your equine dental pro will walk you through each step and make sure your horse is comfortable throughout the process.
  4. Afterwards, you’ll get a full report of your horse’s dental health and any recommendations for follow-up care or future check-ups. And just like that, you can check the equine dental exam off the to-do list – at least until next time!

Finding a Qualified Equine Dentist in Australia

When it comes to your horse’s pearly whites, you want them in the hands of a qualified professional. 

But with various titles like “equine dentist” floating around, how do you know who has the right credentials? 

Qualifications to Look For

In Australia, your best bet is to look for either an equine veterinarian with additional training in dentistry or a qualified equine dental technician (EDT). Equine vets have the advantage of a comprehensive knowledge of horse health, plus the ability to sedate and provide necessary medications.

If you opt for an EDT, make sure they’ve completed a reputable training program. Many EDTs in Australia will have a vocational Certificate IV in Equine Dental Services or higher qualification.

Professional Associations and Certifications

To further narrow down your search, keep an eye out for membership in professional associations. Groups like the Equine Dental Association of Australia (EDAA) and the Australasian Association for Equine Dentistry (AAED) maintain certain educational and ethical standards for their members.

You can also ask potential providers about any continuing education or advanced certifications they’ve pursued. 

Just like in human dentistry, the field of equine dentistry is always evolving, so you want someone who stays up-to-date on the latest techniques and best practices.

Questions to Ask Potential Dentists

Once you’ve found a few promising candidates, don’t be shy about asking questions before booking that first appointment. 

A quality equine dental provider will be happy to chat with you about their experience and approach to horse dental care.

Some key things to inquire about:

  • Their training background and qualifications
  • How long they’ve been practising equine dentistry 
  • What specific services do they offer (e.g. routine floating, tooth extractions, etc.)
  • Their treatment philosophy and typical exam process
  • Pricing and payment options
  • References from other clients

You might also ask about their emergency availability and how they work with your regular equine vet if you have one. 

Building a dental care team that communicates well can only benefit your horse in the long run.

At the end of the day, you want an equine dentist who makes you and your horse feel comfortable, informed, and in good hands. With a little research and the right questions, you’ll find the perfect partner in horse dental care.

The Dental Procedure

So, you’ve booked your horse in for a dental check-up with a qualified equine dentist. What can you expect during the appointment?

Common Treatments (e.g. floating)

One of the most common treatments is floating – but don’t worry, your horse won’t be drifting away on a cloud! 

Floating is the process of filing down any sharp edges or hooks on your horse’s teeth, creating a smooth, even surface for comfortable chewing.

Your dentist may also remove any retained baby teeth that haven’t fallen out on their own, or extract wolf teeth if they’re causing bitting issues. In some cases, more advanced procedures like tooth extractions or corrections for misaligned incisors may be necessary.

Trust your dentist to determine the best course of treatment for your horse’s unique needs.

Sedation Considerations

Now, I know what you might be thinking – “My horse is a real trooper, surely he doesn’t need to be sedated for a little dental work!” 

While it’s true that some horses are more cooperative than others, sedation is an important part of ensuring a safe and thorough dental examination and treatment.

Sedation allows your horse to relax and remain still, giving the dentist better access to all those hard-to-reach molars. It also helps prevent injury to your horse, the dentist, and any assistants during the procedure. 

Your dentist will carefully consider factors like your horse’s age, size, and temperament when determining the appropriate sedation protocol.

Aftercare Instructions 

Congratulations, you’ve made it through the dental appointment! Now, it’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to ensure your horse recovers smoothly.

If your horse was sedated, he may be a bit groggy and uncoordinated for a short period afterwards. Provide a safe, quiet space for him to recover, and hold off on offering food until he’s fully alert.

For routine floats, your horse should be back to his normal self within a day. However, if he underwent more extensive dental work, he may need a softer diet for a few days to a week while his mouth heals. 

Your dentist may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medication or antibiotics in some cases. Be sure to follow their recommendations closely and don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns.

Preventative Care at Home

While regular dental check-ups are crucial, did you know that your horse’s diet also plays a big role in their dental health? It’s true – the right nutrition can help keep those pearly whites in tip-top shape between appointments.

Horses are designed to spend most of their day grazing on fibrous grasses, which helps wear down their continuously erupting teeth evenly. If your horse doesn’t have access to good quality pasture, providing plenty of hay is the next best thing. Older horses or those with dental issues may benefit from softer forage alternatives like hay cubes or chaff.

Avoid feeding too many sugary treats or concentrated feeds, as these can contribute to dental decay and other health issues. And always make sure your horse has access to fresh, clean water to rinse away any leftover food particles.

Moreover, there are simple checks owners can perform in between dental appointments. Start by taking a peek inside your horse’s mouth regularly, looking for any signs of inflammation, injury, or decay.

Watch your horse eat. Does he drop food while chewing or turn his head to one side? These could be signs of dental discomfort. You should also keep an eye out for any changes in behaviour under the saddle like head tossing or resistance to the bit.

Of course, these checks aren’t a substitute for professional dental care, but they can help you catch potential issues early on. If you notice anything concerning, don’t hesitate to give your equine dentist a call.

Conclusion

I know it can be easy to let dental care fall by the wayside, especially when your horse seems happy and healthy. But trust me, prioritizing those pearly whites is one of the best things you can do for your equine friend.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should my horse’s teeth be checked?

Most horses should have their teeth examined by an equine dentist at least once per year. Horses under 5 years old or over 20 years old may need more frequent check-ups every 6 months.

What are some signs my horse may need dental care?

Dropping food while eating, difficulty chewing, bad breath, weight loss, nasal discharge, and behavioural issues when riding (head tossing, resisting the bit) can all indicate dental problems. However, horses often don’t show obvious symptoms until dental issues are advanced.

Does my horse need to be sedated for teeth floating?

Sedation is often necessary to allow the equine dentist to safely and thoroughly examine and float (file) your horse’s teeth. This helps keep the horse relaxed and prevents injury to the horse, handler, and dentist.

What should I look for when choosing an equine dentist?

A: Look for a dentist who uses sedation, a full-mouth speculum, light, and a mirror to properly examine the teeth. They should have a good reputation, provide dental charts, and have a background in equine health and dentistry through formal training or certification.

How much does horse dental care cost?

The cost varies, but a typical dental exam and float averages around $200-250, not including the farm call fee. More complex procedures like tooth extractions will cost more. Remember that regular maintenance can prevent more serious and expensive dental problems later on.

How long does a typical dental appointment take?

Most routine dental exams and floats take about 30-45 minutes per horse, including the sedation time. More involved procedures will take longer.

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