Much like a farrier or veterinarian, an equine dentist has received special training in order to treat your horse. They specialize in their teeth and mouth. Younger horses between two and five years of age should be seeing them every six months, while older ones can extend that to annually. Here's what you can expect!

Equine Dentistry

Your horse's teeth are constantly growing. They need them filed to avoid sharp edges and misalignments. The dentist will use a rasp to smooth them out in a process called floating. Some use power tools, while others hand float. It's important to keep the horse calm in the process, so they may need sedation.

Occasionally, a horse will need a tooth pulled. Many owners request the wolf teeth come out, as they can infer with a bit and training. Your equine dentist will also be able to identify problem areas and solutions. Sometimes, horses drop food or begin to lose weight because of a dental problem.

Check out this dentist in action from the UT College of Veterinary Medicine.

Some of the tools may look unusual, but they help get the job done! Remember, each dentist may have a slightly different method. Make sure to ask for their certification.

Don't delay! It's time to get your horse on your dentist's schedule.