Dental health as a critical but often overlooked component of horse welfare
Dental disease is among the most prevalent and welfare-significant health problems in horses, yet it often goes undetected because horses rarely show overt signs of oral pain. Horses are stoic prey animals — showing dental pain would make them appear vulnerable. Instead, dental problems manifest as weight loss, quidding (dropping food), behavioral changes under saddle, and reduced performance. Annual dental examination is essential welfare practice.
Modern equine dentistry uses oral speculums for examination and power tools for rasping. Sedation is strongly recommended for comprehensive examinations and treatment — unsedated dental work causes stress, prevents thorough examination, and risks injury to horse and handler. Short-duration sedation (detomidine, romifidine) provides excellent relaxation and analgesia during dental procedures. The British Equine Veterinary Association recommends sedation as standard of care for dental treatment.