Horses need to eat hay

There are many reasons why your horse may not be eating hay. But if your horse wants to eat but cannot, a dental problem could be the cause. It’s best to have your horse’s teeth checked as soon as possible.

Horse not drinking enough

In cold weather, water intake can decrease. Offering lukewarm water and/or soaking all feed can help. Additional salt intake can also stimulate water intake. Ensure that water is always easily accessible.

Issues with yellow eggs on horse’s legs

The first larval stages of this parasite migrate through the horse’s mouth and temporarily settle on specific areas on the tongue and between the teeth before being swallowed and overwintering in the stomach as pupae. This migration can lead to gum recession and mild to moderate gingivitis. The tongue's mucous membrane often shows migration paths, cracks, or reactive bumps. In mild cases, your horse will recover quickly. In cases of high infestation or underlying conditions, a tailored treatment plan should be established.

Issues with yellow eggs on horse’s legs

It is best to remove yellow eggs regularly from your horse’s legs and neck (manually or with lukewarm water). This parasite is sensitive to most deworming medications. It is recommended to deworm horses in the fall after adult flies have disappeared. In severe infestations, an intermediate deworming treatment is advised.

Weight monitoring in horses

Regularly take pictures of your horse (side and directly from behind) to have a good comparison basis to assess your horse's condition. If you see your horse daily, it’s much harder to notice (small) changes over time. A measuring tape for the belly circumference can also be a good idea.

Oil in horse food

Adding vegetable oil (linseed oil, corn germ oil, sunflower oil) increases calorie intake without increasing the volume significantly. A slow introduction and up to a maximum of 250 ml/day is recommended for a normal horse.

Overview of PPID

PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction) is a common hormonal disorder, especially in older horses, affecting gums and oral mucosa. Regular check-ups by a specialized equine dentist are crucial for horses with PPID.

Equine dentist frequency

On average, your horse should have an annual check-up, just like you. However, this may depend on the condition of its teeth. Some horses need more frequent visits, while others may not.

Dental pain in horses

When your horse struggles to eat hay and drops chewed bits, it may indicate discomfort while eating. Other signs of oral pain include holding food in its mouth, tilting its head while eating, or making unusual facial expressions.

Sedation for equine dentist

Only a veterinarian can sedate your horse, and yes, it is better for your horse to be lightly sedated, for everyone’s safety and well-being. Dental treatments are not natural for horses, and fortunately, a light sedation allows everything to proceed calmly. Think of cats and dogs, who require general anesthesia for dental problems… For horses, a light sedation is sufficient and recommended!

Riding a horse after the dentist

In principle, yes! After a routine appointment, you just need to wait for your horse to wake up from the sedation. Light work is not contraindicated. Of course, if the dental treatment was more extensive than simple filing, it is recommended to allow the horse a few days of rest. This depends on the situation and should be discussed with your veterinary dentist.

Definition of an equine dentist

An equine dentist is ideally a veterinarian with a special interest or specialization in equine dentistry. To date, the profession of equine dentist is not regulated, meaning anyone can claim to be an equine dentist. It is up to the horse owner to make the right choice and turn to a veterinarian. Only a veterinarian has comprehensive knowledge of horses, is authorized to sedate your horse, and is qualified to extract teeth (including milk teeth or wolf teeth!). Furthermore, only the veterinarian can assist with other problems your horse may encounter related to its teeth.

What is Oligodon¿Qué es la oligodontia en caballos?
Presencia de muy pocos dientes en la dentadura.tia in Horses?

Presence of too few teeth in the dentition.

What is Polydontia in Horses?

Presence of too many teeth in the dentition.

Characteristics of a Neutral Occlusion in Horses

The lower and upper molars are perfectly aligned. These horses typically exhibit a very regular and stable chewing surface.

Understanding a Prenormal Occlusion in Horses

This means that the lower and upper molars are not exactly aligned. In this case, the lower molars are positioned slightly forward compared to the upper molars. These horses tend to develop a front hook on their first lower molar and a typical “wave” in their dentition. This wave in the chewing surface is normal (physiological) for these horses but should be limited in size. Partial correction is often necessary.

Explanation of a Postnormal Occlusion in Horses

This means that the lower and upper molars are not exactly aligned. In this case, the lower molars are positioned slightly farther back than the upper molars. These horses tend to develop a front hook on their first upper molar and a “wave” in their dentition. This wave in the chewing surface is normal (physiological) for these horses but should be limited in size. Partial correction is often necessary.

Cavities in horses

Horses can develop cavities, mainly due to food trapped between teeth. At Equide, we treat cavities preventively to avoid further damage.

Natural dental cleaning in horses

By chewing fibrous food, horses naturally clean their teeth, reducing tartar buildup. Regular check-ups usually suffice for maintaining good oral health.

Caution with filing horse teeth

Excessive filing can lead to tooth loss. As an equine dentist, I only file when necessary and after a thorough evaluation.

Hypsodont vs. brachydont dentition

Horses have hypsodont teeth that grow and wear continuously, whereas dogs have brachydont teeth. This difference highlights the need for specialized dental care in horses.

Structure of a horse’s tooth

Horse teeth contain the same basic components as human teeth: enamel, dentin, cementum, and pulp. We understand this complex structure and tailor our treatments accordingly.

Regular dental care for donkeys

Dental care is also essential for donkeys. As equine dental specialists, we advise regular check-ups to prevent dental problems.

Dental care for ponies and donkeys

All horses, ponies, and donkeys require dental care, regardless of age or use. We recommend regular check-ups by an equine dentist to maintain optimal oral health.

Tooth count in horses

A horse generally has between 36 and 44 teeth, depending on additional teeth.

Horse dental structure

A horse’s dentition includes 12 incisors and 24 molars. They may also have canines and wolf teeth, seen in stallions, geldings, and sometimes mares.

How long does a dental consult for a horse take?

A dental visit for a horse usually consists of several steps and can take about 20-30 minutes (at home) or even 45min-1 hour at the practice, depending on the dental condition of the horse and the treatment needed.

Typical steps of a basic dental consultation for a horse:

-History: The veterinarian will begin by discussing your horse's dental history, diet, feeding behavior and any signs of dental or riding problems you may have noticed.

-Clinical examination: auscultation of the heart, and of the head. Sedation. 

-Mouth Examination: The veterinarian will use specialized equipment, such as a dental mirror and probe, or even oral camera at the practice, to examine the horse's teeth. This can detect broken, worn or misaligned teeth, dental infections and other problems.

-Treatment based on diagnosis

-Recommendations: At the end of the consultation, the veterinarian will give you recommendations for your horse's future dental care, dietary changes and follow-up interval.

It is important to note that the time required for the consultation may vary depending on your horse's dental condition and the complexity of the treatment required.

Signs of teeth problems for horses

There are several signs that may indicate your horse has dental problems and it is time to make an appointment for a dental consultation. Here are some common signs that your horse may have dental problems:

• Difficulty chewing

• Irregular eating patterns: if your horse is shifting their food in their mouth or dropping food while eating, this may indicate pain or discomfort in the mouth.

• Bad breath, excessive salivation, bad smell from the nose

• Behavioral changes, difficult during work

If you notice any of these signs, it is wise to make an appointment for a dental consultation.

When should I make an appointment for a dental consultation?

It is recommended to have a horse's teeth examined by a veterinarian specialised in equine dentistry starting from the age of 2.5 to 3 years old. This is when permanent teeth start to erupt and most of the potential dental issues may arise.

After this initial examination, it is recommended to have your horse's teeth checked regularly by a veterinarian specialised in equine dentistry. The frequency of dental exams depends on the horse's age and dental history, but generally, it is recommended to have a dental exam every 6 months to 1 year.

What is equine dentistry

Equine dentistry is a branch of veterinary medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental problems in horses. Like humans and other animals, horses have teeth that can be affected by various factors such as age, poor nutrition, poor dental care, and other health issues.

Equine dental care includes a wide range of procedures such as dental examination, dental cleaning, tooth extraction, filling, treatment of gum diseases, and maxillofacial surgery. Common dental problems in horses include broken teeth, tooth decay, gum diseases, abscesses, and molars that do not align properly.

Why is equine dentistry important

It is important to have your horse's teeth regularly checked by a veterinarian who specializes in equine dentistry, as dental problems can cause discomfort and pain to the horse and, in the long term, permanent damage to the teeth. Regular dental care can maintain your horse's dental health, which can have a positive impact on their overall health and well-being.

In summary, equine dentistry is an essential aspect of horse health and well-being. Horse owners should be aware of the importance of equine dentistry and the need for regular dental check-ups by a qualified veterinarian to prevent and treat dental problems.

Why is sedation necessary for an equine dental treatment

A thorough oral examination and/or dental treatment are very unnatural procedures for the horse, which is by nature an escape artist. In the vast majority of animal species (such as cats and dogs), general anesthesia is required for these procedures. Fortunately, in horses, light sedation is almost always sufficient. The intravenously administered medication makes your horse less anxious and tense and allows us to treat your horse safely and accurately. Sedation is almost always essential, both from an animal welfare, ergonomic and safety point of view. 

What are the risks of a sedation on horses

Sedation can only be administered by a licensed veterinarian. Wouter Demey is a qualified equine veterinarian and will treat your horse with expertise. This minimizes the risks associated with any medication administration and surgery.

Here’s why domesticated horses need to see the dentist

- Wild horse populations are subject to natural selection, the average life expectancy is well under 20 years. No "truly wild" horse is ever ridden.

- True wild horses would have disappeared without human intervention. Even Przewalski's horse only survives in the reserves we have created.

- Most of our horses are far away from the "natural horse". They are bred to meet our expectations, such as miniature horses of 65 cm or horses of more than 170cm.

- Wild horses have a different diet and are never stabled.

- The ridden horse is subject to the influences of the rider and his/her equipment (saddle, bridle, spurs, ...) Unfortunately, almost every day we diagnose pressure lesions in the horse's mouth. With proper instructions and adequate equipment, these situations can be avoided.

- The horse's teeth - like the teeth of all mammals - are living tissue and have blood flow and innervation. Horses can experience pain in the mouth and teeth. In addition to disorders specific to horses, many disorders that we know of in humans also occur in our horses.

Horse dentist vs. Veterinarian

In the horse world, the name "equine dentist" is quickly given. However, most "horse dentists" are neither doctors (veterinarians) nor dentists. 

Animal dentistry is veterinary medicine (where do you take your dog when he has dental problems? Yes, to your veterinarian). All veterinary procedures such as injections, pulling teeth (even wolf teeth), etc. are forbidden to non-veterinarians. 

It is true that equine dentistry has evolved rapidly. It has become a branch of equine medicine that needs to be studied in more depth after veterinary studies.

What is a Standard Dental Treatment for Horses at the horse dentist?

Excessively sharp enamel points, which can cause lesions (especially in ridden horses), are removed. Additionally, any corrections of the chewing surface due to dominant teeth, excessive transverse ridges, front and/or back hooks are performed. A standard dental treatment focuses on maintaining a functional, healthy dentition and comfort for the ridden horse. There is no “standard” dental treatment; every horse’s mouth is different, and treatment is always based on a diagnosis and treatment plan.

No. 

Standard dental checkups, bit problems, routine dental treatments, etc. can be performed on-site. 

 For this purpose, Equide Veterinary Practice is equipped with a mobile setting. 

For more specialized procedures, it is much better to come to the practice.  Here, everything is available and the work can be done in a qualitative and efficient way. In the end, it is to everyone's advantage.

As with any medical treatment, a diagnosis is first necessary. The examination of your horse is at least as important as the treatment itself. In order to properly assess your horse's teeth, your horse must be calm (sedated), its mouth must be rinsed and its head must be placed on a stand. Only then can an examination with light and mirror/probes take place. 

The material, sedation, time and knowledge used to evaluate your horse's teeth are charged. In exchange, you will receive an honest opinion on the condition of your horse's teeth and no unnecessary treatment will be performed!

There are several advantages to coming to Equide, here are a few: 

• appointments on time and generally much faster than in the field, there is a waiting room as well as a waiting box for your horse. 
• no travel costs which are often high for one or more horses 
• the ideal setting to care for your horse in peace (unique in the Benelux). 
• all state-of-the-art equipment is available and can be used if desired. On the road, the possibilities are more limited. 
• digital dental chart with, if necessary, all images directly available 
• more time, space and possibilities for a good explanation and complete information 
• ...

Periodontitis in horses: inflammation of the gums

Periodontitis is a condition where the soft tissues around the teeth become inflamed and painful. It is often caused by the accumulation of food (fibers) between the teeth. Diastemas, misalignment, and various underlying diseases can cause or worsen this condition. It’s important to have your horse checked regularly and to set up a treatment plan. Treatment often includes dental care, dietary changes, inflammation treatment, and management of possible underlying diseases (e.g., PPID, EMS...).
 This is truly painful for horses

Methods of molar extraction

Oral extraction is generally preferred, with a low risk of complications. A small incision in the cheek or a more invasive procedure under clinical conditions may be required.

Aftercare for a root canal treatment

Painkillers or antibiotics may be prescribed depending on the case. Typically, your horse can be ridden again after a few days.

What to Do for Gum Inflammation in Your Horse’s Mouth?

Horses with periodontitis often require an adapted diet. In general, this involves providing their roughage needs with shorter fibers, at least temporarily. This can include chopped hay, short grass, fine hay, or specially developed feeds with short fiber sources. Long-fiber silage and haylage are the most difficult for these horses to chew. Additionally, the acidic composition of ensiled feeds may hinder gum healing. Treatment for diastema/periodontitis patients varies by case but often includes a tailored diet, pain management, frequent dental check-ups, and support for normal chewing function.

Drawbacks and risks of endodontics

If the treatment is insufficient, extraction may still be required. Root canal treatment can also make the tooth more fragile.

Benefits of endodontic treatment

A root canal carries a lower risk of complications than extraction, with faster rehabilitation. The tooth remains intact and wears naturally with the other teeth.

Treatment of cavities in horses

We treat cavities by cleaning and filling the tooth to prevent further damage. We assess the tooth condition to determine the best treatment approach.

Endodontics for horses

Root canal treatments are possible for horses with open root canals or tooth fractures, offering a less invasive option than extraction.

Causes of quidding in horses

The primary cause is often mouth pain, such as gum inflammation. Reduced chewing ability, especially in older horses, can also lead to bolus formation. We provide a professional examination to assess the condition.

Preventing dental issues in horses

Regular dental care by an experienced equine dentist can prevent issues like food bolus formation. In some cases, a special diet or medication may also be needed.

Dental risks of PPID

PPID increases the risk of periodontitis and tooth mobility in horses. As equine dentists, we closely monitor these risks to ensure proper oral health.

Identifying dental problems in horses

Horses often hide pain, especially with dental issues. Slow eating, behavior changes, or bad breath can indicate discomfort. If you notice these signs, it’s advised to have your horse’s teeth checked by an equine dentist.

If your horse's dental problems are not treated, it can have several negative consequences on your horse's health. Some of the most common consequences are:

1. Difficulty chewing: Dental problems can make chewing difficult, which can lead to weight loss, malnutrition, and overall weakness.

2. Pain: Dental problems can cause pain and discomfort, which can make your horse restless and irritable.

3. Infections: Untreated dental problems can lead to infections that can spread throughout the body and cause more serious problems.

4. Behavioral changes: Dental problems can cause behavioral changes, such as aggression, refusal to eat, excessive drooling, or resistance when putting on a halter or bridle.

5. Difficulty wearing a bridle/to work: Dental problems can cause pain in the mouth and jaw, making it difficult for your horse to wear a bridle or to work.

In general, untreated dental problems can have a negative impact on the health and well-being of your horse. Therefore, it is important to take measures to prevent and treat dental problems, such as regular dental check-ups by an equine dentist.. If you notice signs of dental problems in your horse, it is important to make an appointment with an equine dentist as soon as possible to prevent more serious complications.

Gaps between teeth in young horses

Yes. Your horse’s build and genetic background may cause the molars not to grow close enough together. The last molars, which develop later, are especially important for aligning the row of teeth. This condition is particularly common in very large and very small breeds, where the teeth may not be proportional to the skull size, leading to typical symptoms even at a young age.

Gaps between teeth in older horses

Yes. As horses age, the diameter of the clinical crown (the visible part of the tooth) gradually decreases. More space also develops in the mouth, and potentially between the molars. The size and shape of the teeth, as well as the angle at which they are anchored in the jaw, determine susceptibility to developing this condition.

Veterinarian for elderly horses

Dental treatment in older horses is often more painful due to potential serious conditions in the mouth. Treatments often include tooth extractions or diastema care, and they should be performed under sedation and sometimes local anesthesia. Follow-up medication may also be necessary. These treatments must be conducted only by a veterinarian with expertise in this specific area.

Dentist frequency for horses

Generally, an annual dental check-up is sufficient to prevent problems. However, with very old horses, serious issues can arise quickly; one loose or broken tooth can hinder your horse significantly. Therefore, it’s essential to monitor your elderly horse’s eating habits; if you notice it is eating with more difficulty, a check-up is advisable.

Dental problems in elderly horses

Various dental issues may affect your old horse. Here are the main ones:

• Chronic abnormalities that develop over time (preventable with routine care)
  • Wave mouth, step mouth
  • Extreme hooks
  • Displaced, broken, or infected molars
  • Scissor bite
• Senile diastemas
  A diastema is a gap between two teeth, usually between molars, where food accumulates and decomposes. This leads to severe inflammation of surrounding tissues (gums, tooth socket, tooth attachment). This condition is extremely painful and often results in loose teeth.
• Loose teeth
  Possible due to senile diastemas or as a natural physiological process at the end stage of tooth wear. Loose teeth cause significant discomfort in the horse’s mouth.
• EOTRH
  EOTRH stands for "Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis". It is a slow-developing degradation of the incisors (and possibly canines) of older horses. Some breeds, like Icelandic horses, appear more susceptible. The disease mainly affects the roots of the incisors, resulting in gum inflammation and eventual tooth loss.

Dentist for elderly horses

Dental issues in elderly horses significantly limit their lifespan in the wild. An old horse should be able to eat comfortably; issues like food packing are not normal with age. It is advisable to have your horse’s teeth checked regularly.

Age-related issues in horses

• Less efficient digestion
• More fragile bones and joints
• Arthritis and osteoarthritis leading to lameness
• Weakened immune system and slower recovery from illness
• Recurrent parasitic infections
• Respiratory problems
• Dental issues
• Hormonal changes
• Loss of condition
• Weight loss
• Decreasing organ functions

Winter care for elderly horses

Older horses suffer more during severe winter periods. They need extra energy to maintain body temperature. Additional energy intake and shelter from the cold are essential. Cold weather can also decrease water intake; you can compensate by offering lukewarm water and thoroughly soaking all feed. Extra salt intake can also stimulate water consumption. Make sure water is always easily accessible.

Nutritional advice for old horses

Diet adjustments should be made carefully and slowly. Horses are very sensitive to sudden changes in their diet. Additionally, there is no standard solution for every older horse; the diet greatly depends on the condition and health of your horse.
In general:

• Good quality hay, possibly chopped, pre-soaked or supplemented with ‘grass pellets’.
• Well-soaked beet pulp (a good calcium source).
• Prefer crushed grains, or even better, extruded horse feed. These are preheated and thus easier to digest. Most commercial senior feeds contain extruded ingredients.
• Calcium and phosphorus supplementation in a 1:1 ratio. Older horses have a greater need for phosphorus.
• Vitamin supplementation (mainly B and C).
• Sufficient protein intake.
• Adding vegetable oil (linseed oil, corn germ oil, sunflower oil) increases calorie intake without increasing volume significantly. Introduce gradually, up to 250 ml/day for a normal horse.

What Does "Smooth" Teeth Mean in Horses?

Senile excavation ("smooth mouth"): a condition in which older molars wear down quickly due to a lack of the hardest component, enamel. This condition is physiological in older horses but also leads to reduced chewing capacity. Depending on the severity of this condition and your horse's overall dental health, an adjusted diet may be recommended.

Tooth loss in elderly horses

When molars reach the final stage of wear, they may loosen, causing discomfort in the horse’s mouth and needing removal. Therefore, it is best to regularly check your elderly friend’s teeth.

Age of elderly horses

Generally, a horse is considered elderly from the age of 20, but for well-cared-for horses, this threshold moves towards 25. However, there are significant individual differences.

What are Blind Wolf Teeth in Horses?

These are small teeth located in front of the first molars, usually underdeveloped and without a chewing function. In some cases, they remain covered by the gums and are therefore not externally visible. These are known as "blind wolf teeth." Medically, wolf teeth rarely cause issues but are often associated with riding problems. They are preferably removed before starting the horse under saddle if it will be ridden with a bit.

Wolf Teeth and Riding Issues

Wolf teeth are small teeth located in front of the first molars, usually underdeveloped and without a chewing function. Since they are often associated with riding-related issues, these teeth are preferably removed before starting a horse under saddle, particularly if it will be ridden with a bit.

Wolf teeth are not to be confused with canines

These are small teeth located in front of the first molars, usually underdeveloped and no longer serving a chewing function. Most wolf teeth are in the upper jaw, although they can also be found in the lower jaw. They may be covered by gum tissue (blind wolf teeth). On average, they appear in about 40-50% of horses. They are found in both mares and geldings and emerge before the age of 2. They should not be confused with the horse’s canines ("tushes" or "fighting teeth"). Medically, wolf teeth rarely cause problems but are often associated with issues under saddle. They are preferably removed before starting a horse under saddle if it will be ridden with a bit.

What a horse "quids"

These are partially chewed bits of food (hay) that the horse drops from its mouth, likely due to mouth pain. Cud balls tend to worsen in the fall when horses move from pasture to the stable.

Gaps between horse teeth

A diastema is a gap between two teeth. In healthy horses, all molars are tightly aligned. A horse with diastemas has unusually large spaces between one or more molars, quickly filling with food particles, causing painful gum inflammation.

 Pain due to gaps between horse teeth

As your horse chews, food is pressed between the molars, where it becomes trapped and decomposes quickly. This “rotten” food causes severe gum inflammation. In severe cases, the infection penetrates deeply into the jaw, affecting not only the gums but also the tooth and its anchoring. At an advanced stage, the affected molars often become (partially) loose. Diastema is one of the most painful dental conditions in horses, so proper and regular treatment is essential.

Treating gaps between horse teeth

Along with essential routine care, a patient needs targeted treatment for these issues. The spaces between the molars must be cleaned to remove all decaying food, using specially designed rinsing equipment and air pressure. Depending on the type and number of diastemas, further treatment is determined: this may include temporarily filling the spaces, widening the diastema, or extracting severely affected and/or loose molars.

Feeding advice for horses with gaps

Horses suffering from diastemas often do best on tender (short) grass, supplemented with concentrated feed and/or mash. Wet silage or roughage with long fibers worsens the symptoms. Horses in very poor condition should have an individually tailored diet (e.g., a high-fat diet). We advise feeding easily chewed food (such as structomix, senior feed, fiber nuggets, etc.).

Gaps between teeth in horses

Yes, horses of any age can develop diastemas. Therefore, it is recommended to have the teeth checked regularly, starting at a young age (around 2.5–3 years) to prevent future issues.

Fungident: A Nutritional Supplement for Horses with EOTRH

Equide, in collaboration with Vetrident, has developed a nutritional supplement based on schizophyllan (a proven immunomodulatory protein from a specific mushroom species). Although there are no scientific publications on its effect on horses with EOTRH, positive effects have been observed in some patients. Particularly in the mild stages, effects on the mucous membranes and pain levels are reported. This supplement supports immunity and can help slow the disease’s progression and ease pain symptoms, although it does not offer a cure.

Aftercare Following an EOTRH Treatment

Aftercare is relatively limited and includes wound rinsing and an adjusted diet during the first few days. Major complications are rarely seen after this procedure. Horses with all their incisors removed often let the tip of their tongue hang out of their mouth; however, for most horses, this is just a cosmetic detail.

Anesthesia for EOTRH Treatment

In the vast majority of cases, incisor removal can be performed on a standing horse with local anesthesia/conduction anesthesia (outpatient procedure). Prior to this, the horse is placed on anti-inflammatories.

Riding a Horse Without Incisors

It is not an issue to ride a horse without incisors. The only difference is that these horses often let the tip of their tongue hang out of their mouth. For most horses, however, this is nothing more than a minor cosmetic flaw.

Feeding a Horse Without Incisors

Horses without incisors can surprisingly still eat well, using their tongue and palate to “cut” grass. The general condition and quality of life of your horse also improve after the procedure.

Treatment Options for EOTRH

Unfortunately, there is currently no medication that can halt or cure the disease's progression. Experimentally, corticosteroids seem to slow down the process; however, long-term use of these is risky and often inadvisable for older horses. Equide has also developed a specific supplement: more info about Fungident here. In most cases, extraction of the affected incisors is necessary. Once the diseased teeth are removed, the surrounding tissues settle down.

Signs of EOTRH in horse

Clinical signs (such as excessive tartar, abnormal positioning/alignment of the incisors, thickening of the incisor roots, inflamed, receding, and reactive gums, possible small fistulas, loose and/or broken teeth) are often sufficient for a probable diagnosis. An X-ray (RX) of the incisors provides an overview of the condition's extent.

Possible Causes of EOTRH in Horses

The exact cause of EOTRH is (still) unknown. Hypotheses suggest it may be an autoimmune disease (the body attacks its own incisors). The factors that may trigger this disease are also unknown. There is a clear increase in incidence with age (over 14 years) and EOTRH is also more common in certain breeds. Icelandics seem particularly susceptible, as well as some pony breeds. EOTRH occurs in all horse breeds.

Explanation of the Carrot Test for Horses with EOTRH

To evaluate the pain from EOTRH, it is advisable to perform a carrot test regularly. Hold a carrot and let your horse bite it off with its incisors. If this becomes difficult or impossible, a check-up of your horse’s incisors is recommended.

Recognizing Symptoms of EOTRH

Horses suffering from EOTRH may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms:

• Excessive tartar, abnormal positioning or alignment of the incisors.
• Thickening of the incisor roots.
• Inflamed, receding, and reactive gums, sometimes with small fistulas.
• Loose and/or broken incisors

When EOTRH affects multiple teeth and/or reaches an advanced stage, it becomes a very painful condition. These horses clearly show signs of pain when pressure is applied to the incisors or surrounding soft tissues. They often struggle to bite into, for example, a carrot (called the “carrot test”) or refuse to drink cold water. They often eat with difficulty, drool excessively, and have foul-smelling breath. Behavioral changes (less sociable, apathetic) and riding issues (head sensitivity, refusal of the bit) are also described.

Overview of EOTRH in Horses

EOTRH, or "Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis," is a disease of the incisors (and sometimes canines) in older horses. It is a slowly progressing condition, usually affecting all incisors (often starting on the outer incisors). The disease is characterized by both resorption (dissolution/porosity) of tooth roots and the formation of abnormal amounts of cementum (hypercementosis). In some horses, resorption predominates, making the teeth very brittle and prone to breakage. Others show extreme hypercementosis, with roots thickening to the size of golf balls. Many mixed forms also exist. This condition leads to pain and inflammation of the surrounding tissues (alveolus and gums), often accompanied by redness, pinpoint bleeding, abscesses, and fistulas.

Cost of equine dentist veterinarian

A standard check-up for your horse costs on average between €120 and €150. Each treatment is unique and based on your horse’s needs, so the price can vary. Check our price list for more details...

Cost of treating gaps between horse teeth

The price varies from patient to patient because each mouth is different. Expect multiple treatments for this condition. The initial treatment generally costs between €300 and €500, with follow-up consultations averaging between €200 and €300. For more information, please refer to our price list.

Riding after a dental check-up

After a standard check-up, your horse can usually be ridden the same day. Always check with your equine dentist for specific advice. For example after removal of wolf teeth, it is better to wait +-7 days before going back to riding with a bit

Cost of a root canal treatment

The cost depends on the number of canals and the time needed. Feel free to request more information or consult our price list.

Preparation for dental treatment

For a standing dental treatment, fasting is not necessary. However, we recommend not feeding your horse for 1-2 hours after the procedure.

Hospitalization for root canal treatment

Hospitalization is usually unnecessary. Your horse can go home the same day after the procedure.

Cost of Removing All Incisors in Horses

It’s challenging to set an exact price on this treatment as it depends on various factors. On average, the cost of diagnosis and treatment (removal of all incisors) ranges between €800 and €1,200. For more questions about this, you can always contact us and check our price list.

For appointments at Equide

We recommend settling your payment at the end of your consultation. This can be done easily via Bancontact, QR code (for amounts up to 250€), or cash.

If your horse is registered under a VAT number, you will receive an invoice that can be paid via bank transfer.

For at-home consultations

You may pay for the consultation in cash or via QR code (up to 250€). If this is not possible, we will send you an invoice that can be settled by bank transfer.

As experts in equine dentistry, including dental check-ups and dental care for horses, Equide offers a simple and transparent payment method, both in the clinic and at home.

How to make an appointment with the equine dentist?

Easily make an appointment with our equine dentist by using one of the forms available here.

What information is needed to make an appointment with the equine dentist?

All the information we need for your dental check-up and other dental care for horses is included in these forms.

And also...

Don’t forget to bring your horse’s passport on the day of the consultation. This ensures that everything goes smoothly and easily!

No, Equide Veterinary Practice considers evidence-based veterinary medicine to be of paramount importance. To this end, many courses are taken around the world with an emphasis on scientifically based diagnosis and treatment. While it is always nice to mention that you "studied in America", this is no guarantee. Currently, the highest level of equine dentistry is found in Scandinavia, the UK and Germany.

NCED is an association of veterinarians specialized in equine dentistry. They all have a strong focus on equine welfare and evidence-based medicine. NCED was founded by 6 veterinarians (including Wouter Demey) and is chaired by Dr. Torbjörn Lundström. The purpose of this association is to promote research and education in qualitative equine dentistry. In addition, the NCED is the ideal network to facilitate intercollegiate consultation.

To learn more about the events organized by the NCED (for veterinarians), please visit the "Events" section or for more general information: www.nced.se