Dental Health Important for Equines

Suffering in Silence.  It’s what many horses do when they have dental problems.  Even though they cannot tell us in words that they are hurting, they can tell us with actions.  As a responsible horse owner, it is up to you to know your animal well enough to tell when something is amiss.  Most equine specialists recommend that equines have a complete dental check-up once a year, every year.  However, if you notice any of the following signs, have them checked as soon as possible.

·      Changes in appetite

·      Taking longer to eat

·      Very slow chewing

·      Lacerations to the cheek, tongue or lips

·      Swelling of the mouth area

·      Unusually bad breath

·      Holding head at an odd angle when eating

·      Only using one side of the mouth when chewing

·      Noticeably large, un-chewed food particles in stools

·      Excessive drooling

·      Bleeding from the oral cavity

·      Missing or loose teeth

·      Foul smelling discharge from one side of the nose

Dr. Jenifer Nadeau, Equine Extension Specialist at the University of Connecticut, suggests that dental exams be performed at the following times in a horses life:

Age of Horse	Frequency of Dental Exams
Birth – 18 months	At least once a year
18 – 52 months	Twice a year
4 – 18 years	Once a year
18 years and older	Frequent dental exams to keep mouths healthy and to determine when a geriatric diet may be needed.

Proper dental care allows our horses to live longer, healthier lives and maintain their body condition.  For questions about equine dentals, or for more information contact your local equestrian veterinarian or extension agent.