JOHN TOWE. Equine Dental Technician. BAEDT UK Qualified (2025)

26/03/2025

Are you preparing to introduce your young horse to work this spring? It’s really important before you start your young horse to ensure their mouth comfort.

🦷 Before the age of 5 years horses undergo significant dental changes including:

- the shedding of 24 deciduous (baby) teeth
- the eruption of 24 permanent molars, 12 incisors, possibly four canines and possibly wolf teeth.
This period generally coincides with the introduction of the bit and bridle and then ridden work.

🗓️ Regular check-ups every six months for young horses are extremely important, providing an opportunity to detect and address issues early, also paving the way to allow the horse to perform at their maximum potential.

🔍 Common dental problems in young horses include:

Sharp Enamel Points

As horses teeth erupt and come into wear, they are gradually worn down from chewing. This natural process creates sharp enamel points that may cause painful ulcers on the cheeks and tongue. These sharp points develop on the outside of the upper cheek teeth and the inside of the lower cheek teeth. When a horse has a bit in and a bridle on, the tack can press the soft tissue against these sharp points, increasing the risk of painful soft tissue damage. Thorough rasping of the teeth removes these sharp edges and helps maintain balanced dental arcades, reducing the likelihood of future malocclusions. Because horses have hypsodont teeth, meaning their teeth continuously erupt, sharp points will keep forming over time. Regular dental treatments will give your young horse the best possible experience of a comfortable mouth as they start their career.

Problematic Wolf Teeth

Wolf teeth are small, vestigial teeth that typically erupt between 6 and 18 months of age. Wolf teeth can be present in both male and female equines. They are most commonly found on the upper jaw and rarely on the lower jaw. While the impact of wolf teeth on performance is widely debated, it’s traditionally common practice to remove them in young horses as they serve no useful purpose. Lower wolf teeth almost always certainly need to be removed and upper wolf teeth are usually assessed on a case-by-case basis depending on their location.

Retained Deciduous Teeth (Caps)

Retained deciduous teeth are baby teeth that are present beyond their normal shedding time, which can affect the proper eruption of adult teeth. Mobile caps or those with a clear junction between the baby and adult tooth should be extracted to prevent issues like food trapping, gum inflammation (gingivitis), or more severe problems such as periodontal disease, or even apical infections. Retained teeth may also cause dental displacements, which may lead to diastemata with periodontal disease, and soft tissue trauma if they are out of line and pressing against the cheek or tongue. However careful assessment of deciduous teeth is really important as premature removal can damage underlying adult teeth.

By prioritising early dental care, you’re not only ensuring your young horse’s comfort and willingness to accept the bit but also reducing the risk of dental disease in later life. It’s a really important component of your horses overall life long wellbeing and every horse should have regular dental treatments.

13/03/2025

EOTRH stands for Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis. 🦷

This is a painful and progressive condition that predominantly affects horses aged 15 years and older. It mainly affects the incisors and occasionally the canine teeth, but there has been some very rare cases of affected molar teeth.

The condition involves two primary processes:

Resorption: this is where the calcified dental tissue starts to break down by the horse’s own odontoclast cells reabsorbing the dental structures. This process is believed to be immune-mediated.

Hypercementosis: this is the development of excess cementum which occurs as the dental structures are reabsorbed. The body compensates by over producing cementum in an attempt to stabilise the tooth. This results in bulbous or club-like shapes forming at the apex of the tooth.

The presentation of EOTRH can vary greatly between horses. Some horses exhibit more dominant with hypercementosis, others are more dominant with resorption.
The disease may progress rapidly in some cases but slowly in others.

Due to its progressive nature, early clinical signs may be subtle or go unnoticed until the disease reaches an advanced stage.

Common symptoms include:
•Tartar buildup due to reluctance to use the incisors
•Bulbous dental structures beneath the gumline (caused by hypercementosis)
•Diastemata (gaps between teeth), leading to food entrapment, gingival recession, and periodontal disease
•Red, inflamed gums with draining tracts due to infection
•Loose, fractured, or missing teeth
•Halitosis

Affected horses often struggle to bite into carrots or pull hay from a haynet. Some may develop headshaking, and severe cases can lead to weight loss.

Diagnosis of EOTRH is confirmed through X-rays, which will reveal the extent of resorption and hypercementosis. Currently, the only effective treatment is the extraction of affected teeth by a vet. Each case requires an individualised approach depending on the severity of the disease. Horses adapt very well following extraction, and their improvement highlights the level of pain they were experiencing before treatment.

The cause of EOTRH remains unknown, current studies are exploring periodontal ligament strains, bacterial causes, occlusal pressures, and genetics, however it’s likely to be multi factorial. As our understanding of the disease grows with ongoing research we hope to develop more effective management strategies.

Regular incisor checks are super important to identify signs of EOTRH early. If you suspect EOTRH, consult your EDT or Vet, early intervention can help minimise discomfort for your horse!

19/02/2025

When was your older horse last checked by a qualified professional? 🦷

To find a BAEDT memeber near you visit www.baedt.com

Every horse, every year!

22/01/2025

It’s easy to overlook the dental needs of small ponies, especially those on restricted diets for weight management. However, these smaller equines sometimes face unique dental challenges due to the size of their petite heads. These tiny heads must accommodate the same number of teeth as their larger counterparts, 12 incisors and 24 molars, however with limited space it can often result in significant dental problems.

Smaller breeds, such as Welsh As, Welsh Bs, and Shetlands, are particularly prone to:

• Overcrowding and tooth displacement: This can lead to diastemata (gaps between teeth) and painful periodontal disease.

• Uneven wear patterns: Misaligned teeth wear abnormally, leading to occlusal overgrowths which can impact comfort and chewing efficiency.

• Missing molars: Due to lack of space sometimes molars are absent, therefore the opposing teeth will hyper-erupt, leading to large, very uncomfortable overgrowths that will continually worsen over time if not addressed. These large overgrowths will cause a lot of pain over their lifetime and will cause difficulty eating.

Routine dental checks, at least once or twice per year, are so important for ensuring:

• Early detection of dental disease and discomfort.

• Proper maintenance of chewing surfaces to promote efficient mastication.

• Comfort from sharp enamel points and occlusal overgrowths, which are inevitable without intervention.

Since horses, ponies, and donkeys have hypsodont teeth (continuously erupting throughout their lives), dental issues will ALWAYS escalate if left untreated.

At this time of year, equine dental technicians frequently encounter older small ponies struggling to chew hay. Often, these ponies have been overlooked due to their reputation as “good doers.” Unfortunately, by the time their difficulty eating is noticed, their dental issues may be severe, causing unnecessary pain and possibly even malnutrition.

By prioritising regular dental care, we can improve the welfare of these animals. Together, we can ensure they remain comfortable, healthy, and able to enjoy their food as they age.

25/12/2024

Merry Christmas everyone hope you have a lovely day
🎄🎄🎅🎅

10/11/2024

On Remembrance Sunday, we honour not only the men and women who served but also the animals who stood beside them, their courage in service will never be forgotten.

05/11/2024

Quidding can be caused by a number of dental problems and is usually due to either the horse being in pain or because they are physically unable to chew long fibre forage efficiently. In pain related cases, the horse may be avoiding chewing in a specific area of the mouth due to discomfort. This can result from conditions such as periodontal disease caused by diastemata, or fractured, displaced, or even loose teeth, which may be causing soft tissue injury. In cases where they are physically unable to chew efficiently, the horse might be struggling due to uneven grinding surfaces, large malocclusions restricting lower jaw movement, or excessive tooth wear from old age, resulting in lack of occlusion and therefore compromised chewing ability.

If you notice your horse quidding, it’s crucial to have them checked by your EDT promptly. A thorough dental examination will identify the cause of the quidding, allowing you to discuss a treatment plan with your EDT and potentially any dietary changes.

If your horse lives out over winter, remember to regularly check the area around the hay for signs of quidding. It’s also important to monitor body condition under rugs throughout the season.

Regular lifelong dental care provides peace of mind, ensuring your horse is free from discomfort and allows early detection of any dental issues. If it’s been more than a year since their last checkup, now is a key time to book one, giving them the best chance to maintain body condition through the winter. Waiting for problems to arise may mean they are more difficult to manage long term.

11/10/2024

✨ FAQ Friday ✨

09/08/2024

Archaeologists studying Mongolian horse remains discovered that early nomadic cultures practiced equine dentistry as far back as 1150BCE, in the late Bronze Age. This period is closely linked with the beginning of horseback riding and the rise of mobile pastoralism.

Research also shows evidence of extracted wolf teeth by 750 BCE, which coincides with the introduction of metal bits. The use of metal bits often caused oral trauma, leading to the need for dental care.

These findings suggest that nomadic people were pioneers in veterinary care, with their innovations in equine dentistry not only enhancing communication, trade, and military power but also playing a crucial role in integrating horses into cultures and economies worldwide, ultimately reshaping human societies.

Source: (Taylor et al, 2018)

23/07/2024

Recent advancements in equine dentistry, coupled with increased research in dental anatomy and the development of more efficient and precise dental tools, have significantly improved the standard of equine dental care in the UK.

All BAEDT members are highly skilled in performing thorough oral examinations using LED light sources and dental mirrors. These oral examinations are vital for identifying any signs of dental disease early, allowing for timely intervention. Additionally, with modern dental tools, our EDTs are able to carry out dental treatments safely and efficiently with exceptional accuracy and precision.

Our members’ expertise is complemented by our strong relationships with specialist dental veterinary surgeons. This ensures that if a case requires advanced treatment, we can provide the appropriate referrals, guaranteeing that each horse receives the best possible care. Working together allows us to combine our skills to maintain the highest standards of dental health for every horse we treat.

Don’t compromise on your horse’s dental health, go to our website to locate a BAEDT member near you ✨

25/06/2024

When it comes to the dental health of your horses, trust matters. Our BAEDT members are committed to providing the highest standards of equine dentistry and dedicated to improving equine welfare. By using a BAEDT member you’re ensuring every horse receives the best possible care.

Don’t compromise on your horse’s dental health 🐴✨

13/06/2024

It’s important to remember horses, as prey animals, are naturally stoic. Even though poor dentition can lead to poor condition, horses can often mask any signs of dental discomfort and not show any symptoms.

This means a horse may appear to be in good condition and eat well yet still suffer from hidden dental issues. Regular dental appointments are crucial to ensure their comfort and to identify any problems early, preventing them from worsening into more serious issues.

Every equine every year 🐎🦷

23/04/2024

📝 Recent research highlights a significant increase in dental disorders among horses aged 15 years and older 1️⃣

🔎 Common geriatric dental disorders include:

➡️ Sharp enamel points, diastemata, periodontal disease, wear abnormalities, displaced teeth, mobile teeth, infundibular caries and equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis (EOTRH)

Early identification and treatment of these dental problems are crucial for extending the quality of life for ageing horses.

It's important to remember that horses often mask signs of dental pain, so there may be no clinical signs until advanced stages of disease.

By prioritising proactive dental maintenance every 6-12 months from a young age, we can ensure our equine companions enjoy their golden years comfortably and healthily.

1️⃣ Du Toit, 2023

➡️ Visit www.baedt.com to locate an approved EDT in your area!

08/04/2024

Why choose a qualified and fully insured BAEDT member for your equine dental care needs?

⭐️ Rigorously trained and examined: BAEDT members undergo extensive training and rigorous examinations over several years to gain the BEVA/BVDA qualification, ensuring they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to provide the highest standards of dental care.

⭐️ Commitment to Continued Professional Development (CPD): BAEDT members are committed to staying up to date with the latest advancements in equine dentistry by attending regular CPD activities across the UK.

⭐️ Adherence to a code of conduct: BAEDT members adhere to a strict code of conduct that outlines ethical standards and professional responsibilities. This code ensures that members uphold the highest level of integrity and professionalism in their interactions with clients and colleagues.

⭐️ Dedication to equine welfare:
BAEDT members are deeply committed to enhancing equine welfare not only through their dental work but also through their efforts to educate the public. By raising awareness about the importance of proper dental care and its impact on the overall health and wellbeing of horses.

Don’t compromise on your horse’s dental health. To locate your nearest BAEDT member visit www.baedt.com 🐎

04/04/2024

🐎 As you prepare to introduce your young horse to work this spring, ensuring their mouth comfort sets the stage for optimal performance.

🦷 Before the age of 5 years horses undergo significant dental changes including:
- the shedding of 24 deciduous (baby) teeth
- the eruption of 24 permanent molars, 12 incisors, possibly four canines and possibly wolf teeth.
This period generally coincides with the introduction the bit and ridden work.

🗓️ Regular check-ups every six months for young horses are extremely important, providing an opportunity to detect and address issues early, also paving the way to allow the horse to perform at their maximum potential.

🔍 Common dental problems in young horses include:
- sharp enamel points, which can cause subsequent ulceration to the inside of cheeks and tongue
- problematic wolf teeth
- mobile or retained deciduous teeth
- diastemata and food impaction which can lead to periodontal disease, considered the most painful condition in the horses mouth.

👍🏻 By prioritising early dental care, you’re not only ensuring your young horse’s comfort and willingness to accept the bit but also reducing the risk of dental disease in later life.

Every Equine, Every Year 🦷

Visit our website to locate a BAEDT Equine Dental Technician near you ➡️ www.baedt.com

28/03/2024

What on earth…?? So here is the problem with the equine dental industry in the UK, and also worldwide. Horse owners do not know who is properly qualified and well trained to perform dentistry on their horses.

It costs a fortune to own and look after a horse as anyone who has a horse knows only too well, and dentistry is an extremely important but usually only small part of that overall package of care. It’s only once or twice a year, and that is the opportunity to make sure everything is in order, properly balanced and there are no problems lurking. If treatment is needed, then that treatment (and also the routine treatment) must be performed by someone with appropriate legal status and qualification.

In this case, ‘treatment’ was carried out by an individual without the appropriate training or qualifications: the result? The horse has not been able to eat for months since this ‘remedial’ work was performed - I’ll leave it to those that know to comment on this - if you know, you know. I’ll add some comments later but suffice it to say this is NOT specialist advanced remedial work as it was described. Individuals must not described themselves as ‘occlusal specialists’, ‘remedial specialists’, ‘natural balancing specialist dentists’ etc etc - the word ‘specialist’ is a protected term for RCVS/EBVS veterinary specialists but sadly is used by some to confuse and trick horse owners into thinking they have qualifications and experience way beyond what is actual reality.

We will do another post, and an upcoming video and podcast on how to choose the right person for the right job but meanwhile please check - routine dentistry yes an experienced vet or qualified EDT (BAEDT/WWAED) - advanced work for problems (eg diastemas or gaps between the teeth as in the case in the photo) - this must be undertaken under sedation by an appropriately qualified vet with preferably Advanced Practitioner status or better Specialist qualification - not a dentist under vet supervision, not a dentist, not a balancing specialist, not a farrier, not the tooth man, not the tooth fairy, not the osteopath with a tooth rasp etc etc. The horse is the one that suffers.

27/03/2024

When was your little ones last dental?

Just because they are retired, companions, or “good doers” doesn’t mean they don’t need their teeth checked.

It’s common to underestimate the dental needs of these smaller equines, especially as some may be on restricted diets for weight management. Horses, ponies and donkeys all have the same amount of incisors and molars and that means these little guys are prone to many dental problems as they have such tiny heads to fit all those teeth in.

It’s so important that they are checked at least once if not twice per year to ensure they are free from any discomfort, detect early stages of disease, and to give them the best chance of having efficient chewing surfaces as they go into old age. Having hypsodont teeth means that the teeth continually erupt so will always be developing sharp enamel points and any overgrowths will become worse over time.

Don’t let them suffer in silence.
Together we can improve equine welfare.

Every Equine, Every Year 🦷

www.baedt.com

🦷

17/03/2024

What does it take to become a BEVA/BVDA qualified Equine Dental Technician?

As we approach this week's practical exam, we're eager to shed light on the journey each of our members has undertaken. It takes several years of intensive training and rigorous examinations to achieve full qualification.

The examination process entails:

➡️ Completion of BEVA/BVDA advanced theory course
➡️ Evidence of education- either
- BSc or FdSc in Equine Dental Science/Studies
- Training under direct supervision of BAEDT member or Veterinary Surgeon with expertise in equine dentistry
- RCVS membership
➡️ Submisson of 300 case studies, of which 40 are advanced case studies countersigned by the attending Veterinary Surgeon
➡️ 2 references -one from BAEDT member and one from a Veterinary Surgeon with expertise in equine dentistry
➡️ Minimum of 5 days working alongside a BAEDT member or Veterinary Surgeon with expertise in equine dentistry
➡️ BEVA/BVDA Theory exam
➡️ BEVA/BVDA Practical exam

Not to mention the countless hours spent shadowing, undertaking unpaid work, traveling expenses, investing in training courses, and the financial outlay for equipment.

We take immense pride in our members for their relentless passion and unwavering dedication to equine welfare.

Visit our website to locate a BAEDT Equine Dental Technician near you ➡ www.baedt.com

📸 Kim Kilner BAEDT

JOHN TOWE. Equine Dental Technician. BAEDT UK Qualified