Your horse’s dental health plays a crucial role in its overall well-being, but many horse owners overlook the signs that their equine friend might need a dental check-up. Horses can’t tell us when something’s wrong, so it’s up to us to recognize the subtle cues they give. If you’ve noticed changes in your horse’s eating habits, behavior, or condition, it could be their way of saying, “I need my teeth checked!”
⚠️ What to Watch For
Horses rely heavily on their teeth to chew food properly and maintain good nutrition. Dental issues can lead to discomfort, poor digestion, and even serious health problems. Here are 12 signs your horse might need its teeth checked:
- Dropping food while eating (quidding)
- Slow or difficult chewing
- Weight loss despite a good diet
- Unwillingness to eat or selective eating
- Bad breath
- Facial swelling or tenderness
- Head tossing or resistance during bridling
- Excessive salivation
- Undigested food in manure
- Behavioral changes, such as irritability
- Chronic nasal discharge
- Visible sores or wounds in the mouth
Even just one or two of these symptoms could indicate a dental issue. Regular monitoring and prompt action can prevent small problems from becoming major ones.
🔍 Possible Causes
Dental problems in horses can stem from a variety of causes. Some of the most common include:
- Sharp enamel points or hooks on teeth
- Uneven wear due to malocclusion (misalignment of teeth)
- Tooth fractures or infections
- Retained baby teeth in younger horses
- Periodontal disease
- Age-related dental wear in senior horses
Horses have continuously growing teeth (hypsodont teeth), which require proper alignment and wear to stay functional. Without routine dental care, their teeth can develop sharp edges, gaps, and other painful conditions.
✅ What You Can Do at Home
While a veterinarian or equine dentist is essential for proper dental care, there are steps you can take to monitor your horse’s dental health at home:
- Inspect your horse’s mouth for obvious signs of injury, swelling, or sores
- Watch your horse closely while eating to spot unusual behaviors
- Check their manure for undigested food particles
- Feel their jawline and cheeks for lumps or heat
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a professional dental check. Remember, prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to your horse’s health.
💡 When to Call a Vet
While some mild signs might not seem urgent, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your horse’s dental health. Call a vet or equine dental specialist if:
- Your horse shows multiple symptoms listed above
- There’s visible swelling or infection around the mouth
- Behavioral changes persist or worsen
- It has been more than a year since the last dental exam
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, adult horses should receive dental exams at least once a year, while younger and senior horses may need more frequent checks (source).
During a dental exam, your vet will float (file) the teeth to remove sharp points, check for underlying issues, and ensure proper alignment. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve your horse’s comfort and quality of life.
FAQs
Q: How often should I have my horse’s teeth checked?
A: Most horses need a dental exam once a year. Younger horses (under 5 years) and seniors (over 15 years) may require more frequent check-ups due to faster tooth changes.
Q: What happens during a horse dental exam?
A: A vet or equine dentist will examine your horse’s mouth, float (file) sharp points, and address any other dental issues like infections or loose teeth. Sedation is often used for the horse’s comfort.
Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.
