Lee Shakeshaft Equine Dentist.

08/06/2025

PLEASE NOTE- We are away on holiday from monday 9th-13th june (for someones birthday). Work phone will not be coming with us! We will reply to everyone once we return.

02/05/2025

A lovely sunny week.
Please note , not everyone is receiving reminders still unfortunately, so please get in touch if you are unsure when your horse is due.

26/03/2025

19/03/2025

09/03/2025

Keeping busy!

13/01/2025

Rosa being very brave for her first dental check.

07/01/2025

A snowy first day back in action.
Please note: our charting system is not currently working properly so you may not get your reminder email. If in doubt please get in touch.

20/12/2024

Last ponies done, that's it now until the new year! We start back on the 7th January, I will be checking messages a couple of times over the break but obviously not as regular as normal. Wishing all our friends and clients a merry Christmas and a happy new year!!!

21/11/2024

Limited availability between now and Christmas, also taking bookings now for the new year.

13/11/2024

Lee and Hotey, the miniature donkey, definitely one of our cutest clients.

08/11/2024

https://www.facebook.com/share/158846fQx3/

03/10/2024

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/NzesWbLry8fa7AF7/

Mind the gap! 🔍🦷

A diastema (singular) or diastemata (plural) refers to an abnormal space between teeth. Normally, horses have six cheek teeth in each dental arcade, tightly positioned to function as a single grinding unit. However, if a gap exists between these teeth then food can become trapped. A UK study indicated that 49.9% of horses of all ages are affected. The prevalence of diastemata increases in horses over the age of 15.

Diastemata are classified into two types:

Primary Diastemata

These are developmental in nature and can occur due to improper rostral-caudal angulation, dental buds that are too far apart, or teeth that are developmentally displaced or rotated.

Secondary Diastemata

These are acquired and may result from tooth displacement, pressure from occlusal overgrowths, drifting teeth following extraction, or the natural tapering of teeth with age, leading to senile diastemata.

There are two types of diastemata based on the gap's shape:

Open Diastema: The gap is the same width from top to bottom.

Valve Diastema: The top of the gap is narrower than the bottom, which can cause food impaction.

If food becomes impacted then bacteria can proliferate leading to gingivitis, and the breakdown of periodontal ligaments causing periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is considered the most painful condition in the horses mouth. Signs of periodontal disease includes quidding, halitosis, and in severe cases, weight loss.

The treatment of diastemata should be approached on a case-by-case basis. First steps include clearing any impacted food and good quality dentistry. In some cases, further intervention and referral to a veterinary surgeon may be necessary. More advanced treatments involve using materials to bridge the diastemata, preventing food from becoming trapped and promoting gum healing. In cases of valve diastemata, mechanically widening the top of the gap can facilitate less trapping of food material, which can be an effective solution. In some severe cases of displaced teeth, extraction may also be an option. Additionally, dietary adjustments may be required.

Every diastema is individual, therefore it’s important to discuss with your EDT regarding long term management.