Dentistry in the equine patient is a matter that should be addressed on a yearly basis as a part of a comprehensive well-horse program. Floating is the term used in the equine industry as the procedure that removes sharp points that inflict damage to the cheeks and tongue. The reason the procedure is needed is a simple matter that is based in the differing width of the maxillary, i.e. the upper teeth and the mandibular arcades, i.e. the lower teeth. Due to this differing width, see photo, the teeth do not grind off evenly and the result is the development of sharp enamel points that can cause pain, alter the chewing pattern and effect performance. The teeth are evaluated with the aid of a full mouth speculum that allows access to the entire oral cavity. Access is essential and often sedation is used as a means of calming the patient and allowing the procedure to occur as quickly and with the least amount of discomfort. The doctors at Mid-Rivers Equine utilize power dentistry tools almost exclusively. These instruments allow for a shorter procedure and dramatically less discomfort for the patient. The use of powered instruments has revolutionized the dental industry and provides tremendous benefits over the traditional hand files of the past.
Floating your horses teeth as a routine part of health care is important because the passage of time complicates dental problems. Relatively small dental issues can alter the way a horse chews and this can amplify the problem. A relatively simple procedure yearly will go a very long way in keeping your horse healthy and pain free.
Equine Dental Facts
How many teeth do horses have? If they have a complete set, which is rare, they would have 44 teeth.
Incisors- the front teeth they use to pull grass, 6 on top and 6 on bottom.
Canines- located between incisors and cheek teeth, usually present in just male horses, 2 on top and 2 on bottom.
Pre-molars- first pre-molar (wolf tooth), 4 pre-molars total on each side, top and bottoms. Wolf teeth most commonly on top but can be on the bottom as well.
Molars- 3 teeth on top and bottom of both sides.
Hypsodont- type of teeth horses have, which will continue to erupt until 20 to 30 years of age.
Dentistry in the equine patient is a matter that should be addressed on a yearly basis as a part of a comprehensive well-horse program. Floating is the term used in the equine industry as the procedure that removes sharp points that inflict damage to the cheeks and tongue. The reason the procedure is needed is a simple matter that is based in the differing width of the maxillary, i.e. the upper teeth and the mandibular arcades, i.e. the lower teeth. Due to this differing width, see photo, the teeth do not grind off evenly and the result is the development of sharp enamel points that can cause pain, alter the chewing pattern and effect performance. The teeth are evaluated with the aid of a full mouth speculum that allows access to the entire oral cavity. Access is essential and often sedation is used as a means of calming the patient and allowing the procedure to occur as quickly and with the least amount of discomfort. The doctors at Mid-Rivers Equine utilize power dentistry tools almost exclusively. These instruments allow for a shorter procedure and dramatically less discomfort for the patient. The use of powered instruments has revolutionized the dental industry and provides tremendous benefits over the traditional hand files of the past.