Equine Dentistry and Welfare | Animal Welfare Hub

Dental problems are among the most common yet underdiagnosed causes of pain and poor performance in horses. Regular dental care is a fundamental component of equine welfare.

Key Facts

Horses require dental checks at least annually; performance horses may need checks every 6 months
Sharp enamel points develop as horses chew and can cause ulcers on the cheek and tongue
Equine dentists estimate 70-80% of horses examined show dental abnormalities requiring treatment
Dental pain causes head tossing, reluctance to accept the bit, and reduced feed intake
Wolf teeth, vestigial premolars, can cause bit discomfort and are routinely extracted in performance horses
Power tools have replaced hand rasps but require sedation and proper training to use safely

Welfare Considerations

Dental pain in horses is frequently misattributed to behavioural problems or training issues, leading to inappropriate correction rather than veterinary treatment. A horse unable to eat comfortably or carry a bit without pain is experiencing chronic suffering that affects every aspect of its life. Regular professional dental assessment by qualified equine dental technicians or veterinary surgeons is essential to prevent and address these problems before they become severe.

What You Can Do

Schedule annual dental checks for all horses and ponies in your care
Consult a vet or qualified equine dental technician rather than unqualified practitioners
Learn to recognise dental pain signs including quidding, dropping feed, and head shaking
Advocate for mandatory dental care standards in equine welfare regulations
Support training programmes that teach stockpersons to identify dental abnormalities early