01/11/2025
HORSE TEETH DO NOT GROW!
A horse’s front teeth (incisors) as well as their premolars/molars will continue to ERUPT as the grinding surface is naturally worn by chewing. A young adult horse's teeth are typically 4.5–5 inches long, with a majority of the crown remaining below the gumline in the dental socket (reserve crown)
This occurs because they are hypsodonts and their mouth is designed for grazing. Erupting teeth help horses maintain good contact between their grinding surfaces, which helps them chew efficiently (about 1/8” per year)
The constant eruption can lead to dental issues, such as sharp points and other abnormalities, which is why a good Dental Provider is necessary. I know I know, horses in the wild don’t get their teeth done. I’m happy to write about that in another post
Because there is a finite amount of reserve crown, the term “eruption” is used rather than “grow” because the whole tooth never gets longer and it can eventually expire whereas animals who have teeth that truly grow (rodents, rabbits and squirrels) do not.
All that to say a lot is going on in your horse’s mouth as teeth are erupting, especially the youngsters under the age of 5
Every horse should be examined by a qualified/certified Equine Dental Provider every 6-12 months with a bright light and a full mouth speculum
Happy to help- give me a call or shoot a message
