Dentistry
Oral health is crucial for a healthy horse, regardless of if your horse is a loved paddock ornament or a performance horse.
Did you know your horse has 36 to 44 teeth?
Every horse should have their whole mouth examined every year so that we can maintain a healthy mouth or develop a tailored treatment plan to ensure your horse's mouth is comfortable and pain free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you use sedation and will my horse lay down?
Yes, I do use sedation. No, your horse will not lay down.
Sedating your horse for an oral examination and dental does have several advantages: safety for your horse, you and me, reducing stress and being able to examine the whole oral cavity with a bright light and a mirror to see all sides of each of your horse's teeth.
Your horse will get a once over before sedating to assess it's general health and condition. The sedation is dosed individually for your horse and your horse will be back to its normal self a couple hours later.
My horse never had a bit in it's mouth, does it really need a dental?
Yes. A young horses mouth goes through many changes and ensuring a pain-free mouth before placing a bit in the mouth is crucial.
How often should my horse have it's teeth examined?
Every 6-12 months, but you will be advised what time frame is best suited for your horse.
Is a horse dental procedure painful for my horse?
No. It might feel foreign to your horse, but not painful.
Do you use power tools? Is this harmful to my horses teeth?
Yes, I do use Power tools and I will not damage your horse's teeth. The diamond disc does not injure gums, tongue or soft tissue of the mouth. If you have any doubts you may ask for a demonstration :)
What does a dental appointment look like?
Every appointment starts with a general conversation about your horse health, riding and dentistry history, followed by a general physical examination. Once your horse has been found fit for the procedure sedation will be administered. your horse's head and mouth will be examined thoroughly, and questions will be answered at the time. Treatment in form of odontoplasty (floating), cleaning stuck food and making a plan for your horses oral health.
If your horse needs any vaccinations his is also a good opportunity to get their annuals done.
Can I ride my horse on the same day?
Feel free to ride your horse before the procedure but is best to give them the rest of the day off to recover from their sedation.
Can my horse eat after the dental?
Yes, just make sure the sedation has worn off. This will take about 2 hours after the procedure.