Dentistry Services

Regular dental exams and routine floating are very important for horses, especially as they age. Through normal wear, horses often develop uneven tooth surfaces and sharp points that can cut the cheeks or tongue. These points are usually on the very back teeth and can be difficult to reach. Routine floating smooths these areas and helps keep your horse’s mouth healthy.

Floating should always be performed by a veterinarian. Veterinarians have the training, equipment, and—most importantly—the legal ability to sedate your horse so the procedure can be done safely. Sedation allows the use of an oral speculum, bright light, and dental mirror so the entire mouth, including the very back teeth, can be examined thoroughly. Issues such as food packing, caries, missing teeth, sharp points, and hooks cannot be properly evaluated without sedation.

The next time your veterinarian is out for a health check or vaccinations, ask for a brief dental exam. A quick assessment of the incisors will help determine whether your horse needs a full dental examination and floating.