Frequently Asked Questions
Q - Does my horse NEED a dentist?
A - Yes! Horses teeth haven't yet evolved for the processed grains and hay that we feed. They are designed for wild grasses. Horses a teeth slowly grind from the top as they chew, we need to ensure that no sharp hooks or surfaces develop so they can eat to the best of their ability and be pain free
Q - How often should my horse be seen?
A - Horses 5 years and under should be seen every 6 months as there are a lot of changes happening to their teeth during this time. Horses over 5 years should be seen every 12 months unless there is a condition that requires more frequent treatment
Q - Do you sedate?
A - The vast majority of horses that I treat do not require sedation to perform a routine dental treatment. In the case of more extensive treatment or difficult extraction or your horse is extremely uncooperative, I am able to organise a vet to attend for a light sedative.
Q - Are you qualified?
A - Yes , I studied at the Australian Equine Dental Practice and am a member of the National Equine Dental Practitioners Association
Q - What are the signs that something may be wrong with my horses teeth?
A - 80% of horses don't show signs that they have a dental issue. Its not until we examine their mouth that those issues are picked up. However, the following may indicate an issue
- Dropping Hard Feed
- Excessive Saliva
- Bad smelling breath or saliva
- Uncharacteristic head shyness
- Head bopping or shaking in bridle
- Dunking hay in water
- Slow eating
- Loss of condition
- Quidding (balls of semi-chewed food being spat out)
Q - Do you use power tools?
A - No, I do not use or condone the use of non-continuously water cooled tools or files in equine dentistry. These tools can cause irreparable damage to the tooth and extreme discomfort to the horse - hence the need to sedate horses when using them.