Dental disease is one of the most common and underdiagnosed sources of chronic pain in horses. Regular dental care is essential for welfare and performance.
Dental pain in horses is chronic, invisible, and frequently attributed to behavioral problems rather than physical suffering. A horse refusing the bit, losing weight, or dropping food may be experiencing constant oral discomfort. Because horses evolved to conceal pain, owners may not detect dental problems until they are severe. Routine annual examinations with a dental speculum and adequate sedation allow comprehensive assessment and treatment. Early intervention prevents the progressive dental pathology that becomes extremely difficult and expensive to manage in older horses.