12/05/2026
The tooth fairy definitely earned overtime on this one…
These 6 teeth were removed from a horse under a general anaesthetic by Dr Jose after being affected by EOTRH, a painful and progressive dental disease that commonly affects older horses.
EOTRH stands for Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis. In simple terms, the teeth begin to break down internally while the body also produces excessive abnormal cementum around them. The result? Painful, loose, infected teeth that can make eating uncomfortable and significantly impact a horse’s quality of life.
Some signs owners may notice include:
• Difficulty eating or dropping feed
• Weight loss
• Bad breath
• Swelling around the mouth
• Excessive salivation
• Sensitivity when touching the face or mouth
• Changes in behaviour or resistance to the bit
Unfortunately, horses are incredibly good at hiding pain, so many cases go unnoticed until the disease is advanced.
The good news? Once these painful teeth are removed, many horses are noticeably happier, more comfortable, and able to eat properly again.
If your horse is showing any signs of dental discomfort or is entering their senior years, regular dental checks are so important. Early detection can make a huge difference.
📞 To book a dental assessment with Dr Jose, contact the team today.
