Leading
the Field in
Equine Dentistry
# 1 in Pneumatic Equine Dental Equilibration
FAQ's //
How Often Does My Horse Need Dental Treatment?
Normally 6-12 months, but every 6 months for horses with malocclusions, those involved in performance events/training, that require the horse to be on the bit and responsive, or for young horses still acquiring permanent teeth and those with softer teeth (points form faster). Virtually all other horses need their mouths examined annually and will need dental care at that time.
What Are The Benefits of Equine Dental Care?
With proper dental care, a horse gets maximum benefit from their grain and hay, the most efficient way to save on feed. Additionally, a horse with annual dental attention is at a reduced risk of colic and choke, since they do a better job of chewing their feed. Horses with properly maintained teeth have fewer sores in their mouth and are more comfortable with the bit, enhancing performance. Finally, a properly maintained mouth helps preserve valuable teeth and grinding surfaces as your horse ages, leading to longer useful life, lived in better health with less discomfort.
What Kind Of Instruments Will Be Used On My Horse?
Dr. Smith works primarily with pneumatic instruments, powered by an air compressor, that allow safe, precision corrections with a minimum of strees on the horse or his teeth. Dr. Smith can easily look into the horse's mouth with adequate lighting to reveal any and all problems that need correction, explaining and showing to you what needs to be done, and why, as the dental progresses. He uses a full-mouth speculum to keep your horse's mouth open safely, allowing for optimal access, while preventing injury to the horse's teeth, cheeks, tongue, or gums. He even uses a dental mirror very similar to the one used by your family dentist, although it is considerably larger!
Meet Dr. Smith
"I have been practicing as an equine veterinarian for over 40 years and during that time I've learned that preventive medicine is the most rewarding to me. Maintaining the oral health of a horse improves overall wellbeing, prolongs useful life, and prevents pain and disease; it also improves performance. I find that process very rewarding. I love working with horses and the people who love them enough to provide this level of dental care for them."
What You Need to Know
Before Choosing an Equine Dentist
- What level of training does your dentist have?
- What extent of work does my horse require? How will he or she be safely sedated?
- What instruments will be used and how do they work?
From the Horse's Mouth
