Checking For Problems

What we look for in a dental check externally is for any injury, lumps, discharge from the eyes or the nose, sensitivity in the temporomandibular joint (joint that aids with chewing) and any other abnormalities around the head. Within the mouth we check for malocclusions and problems including;

• any sharp edges on the teeth in the upper jaw closest to the cheek wall (known as the buccal edge)

• any sharp edges on the teeth in the lower jaw closest to the tongue (known as the lingual edge) ramps which are usually found on the first pre-molar in the lower jaw or the very last teeth in the lower jaw

• hooks (resembling a hook shape) which are often found on the first pre-molar in the upper jaw

• beaks which are also often found on the first pre-molar in the upper jaw but are usually wider than hooks

• waves which are found on all four arcades (rows of teeth) often occur over time when teeth become dominant or eating patterns change

• wolf teeth may be found in front of the first pre-molars and can vary greatly in size although not all horses have them and they may not always cause a problem

• fractures, horses can fracture teeth anywhere in the mouth through trauma or accidents which can cause pain and discomfort

• sheer mouth which is where the arcades can change angle through adverse chewing patterns or incisor issues

• cavities (known as caries) can be found in the molars and severe caries can lead to infections and fractures

• food pocketing / packing food which is where food can become lodged in caries or fractures. Horses have also been known to pack food between the cheek and teeth as a barrier to cushion against pain and discomfort. Packing food can cause pain and decay

• foreign objects such as wire, twigs, thorns etc