12/20/2023
Did you know horses teeth continuously erupt over their life and erupt around three to four mm per year?
Horses teeth are called hypsodont (a tooth that continues to erupt from the jaw for prolonged number of years)
The average adult permanent premolar or molar is approximately four inches long (100 mm) and should last them for 25-30 years with proper and yearly dental care.
Abnormal conditions or wear patterns of the teeth are typically caused by habits and behaviors. The smallest abnormal wear pattern can disrupt the normal chewing pattern. If these abnormalities are not corrected quickly it can permanently change the chewing pattern. Minor pain, severe pain, discomfort can all be caused from overgrowths or malocclusions to adjacent teeth due to abnormal condtions. Abnormal conditions can occur as early as 2 years of age.
Equids are naturally prey animals and will generally avoid showing pain and weakness to protect themselves from predators. Physical behavior is not the best way to judge if a horse needs dental care. Dental care needs to be a priority and standard of care as it’s equally as important as farrier work, immunization and deworming.
The photos shown here are of horses 20 years and older that have never received any dental care over their life. These horses have very abnormal dental conditions as well as many missing teeth. These are irreversible conditions and equine dental professionals can only help provide comfort care as best as possible. These horses require specialized care and feed to maintain their weight.
Dental exams should be a standard of care. They should be done every 6-9 months or at a minimum once per year, starting when training begins or at 2.5 years of age.
If you have any questions leave them in the comments! 😊
