Dental disease in horses causes chronic pain that affects performance, behaviour, and quality of life, yet routine dental care remains inconsistent across the equine population.
Dental pain causes chronic discomfort during every meal and every ride when a bit is used, profoundly affecting daily welfare. Altered performance behaviours including resistance and head shaking are frequently attributed to training problems rather than pain, delaying diagnosis. Regular dental examination by qualified equine dental technicians or veterinary surgeons prevents the development of painful dental disease.