Dental disease in horses causes chronic pain that affects eating, behaviour, and performance, yet annual dental checks remain underused despite their proven welfare benefits.
Dental disease in horses is common, frequently painful, and often missed by owners who attribute behaviour changes to training problems or stubbornness. A horse that resists bridling, carries its head awkwardly, or loses weight despite adequate feeding may be experiencing significant dental pain. The teeth of horses are complex structures that undergo continuous changes; sharp enamel points, hooks, and wave mouth develop predictably and require regular professional intervention to prevent pain and maintain function. The welfare benefit of routine dental care is well established and the cost is modest relative to other horse maintenance expenses.