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Why is dental care so important?

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Dental care is essential for your horse’s health and wellbeing. As prey animals, horses instinctively hide signs of pain or weakness—after all, in the wild, the weakest are the easiest target for predators.

Equine dentistry isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about preventing them. Regular dental care helps avoid issues before they become serious, leading to shorter and less stressful treatments. A comfortable mouth allows your horse to eat more efficiently, which can improve condition, enhance performance, and even contribute to a longer, healthier life.

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What should I expect from a dental appointment?

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If you're not a fan of the dentist yourself, you might find the idea of having one for your horse a bit daunting. However, rest assured that all horses and donkeys, regardless of their job or value, receive the same level of care.

We begin by asking a few questions about your animal's medical history (to the best of your knowledge), eating habits, and riding routines. It's important to note that all horses and donkeys must be up to date with their tetanus vaccination for treatment to proceed.

The process starts with a thorough inspection of the head. We examine the incisors, and then a safe, carefully fitted gag is placed (see gallery for images), allowing us to open the mouth. This step is completely safe and done with care. A detailed examination follows, using a bright headlight to get a clear view. Dental picks, probes, and mirrors may be used for closer inspection.

If treatment is necessary, it will be carried out using a combination of motorized (battery-operated, no electrical points involved) and hand tools. These motorized instruments require special training to use, ensuring they are both safe and effective. After the procedure, the gag is removed, and we recheck the incisors to ensure proper cheek tooth occlusion (contact between the teeth). All findings are carefully documented on your horse’s or donkey’s chart. At the end of the examination, we’ll discuss the results with you and provide any recommendations for follow-up care. A detailed report, including all recommendations, will be emailed to you for your records.

Please note*

Payment is always required at the time of appointment unless previously discussed. 

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How often should I get the dentist?

 

Horses and donkeys should see the dentist at least every 12 months as a routine, we recommend under the age of 6 and over 20 should be seen every 6 months, this will help monitor changes at these vital times. Horses or donkeys with dental problems may need to be seen more frequently. Every horse / donkey is an individual and treatment is always specific to their needs. 

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What are the signs of dental problems? 

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  • Resistance and evasion to the bit or bridle  

  • Changes in behaviour, becomes aggressive or depressive

  • Change in ridden behaviour example head tilting, head tossing, mouth open, rearing, bolting or bucking

  • Facial swellings

  • Inflammation of the gums

  • Facial swelling

  • Headshaking

  • Only chews feed on one side

  • Bad breath (halitosis)

  • Long fibre or undigested food in droppings

  • Pouching - of feed in the cheeks

  • Quidding - dropping partially chewed hay

  • Dropping hard feed

  • Refusing to eat

  • Discharge and / or smell from one or both nostrils

  • Excessive salivation

  • Choke

  • Weight loss

  • Colic

  • No obvious signs - some can be eating well, good weight as have learnt to live with issues

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