02/27/2026
🌟 FUN CASE FRIDAY 🌟
In celebration of Pet Dental Month, our fun case Friday follows Copper, an older horse who presented to us for a post-purchase assessment.
Dr. Burkle assessed Copper and noticed that he was thin and needed some farrier work. Upon assessing his teeth, it was noted that he had sharp hooks and points on his molars. Hooks are severe, long protrusions on the first/last molars. Points are sharp enamel points on the outer upper/inner lower molars that can damage the cheeks and tongue.
Copper was sedated, and an equine mouth speculum was used to allow visualization of his teeth. Copper had hooks present on both the top and bottom molars on each side. He also had sharp points on the sides of his teeth, which caused ulcers on his cheeks and tongue. These are very painful for horses and can cause them to avoid eating due to the damage!
A special tool called an equine dental float with a rotating diamond bit is used to help file down these sharp points and hooks. After some extensive dental work, Copper is doing great at his new home, and it's reported that he is now eating better at home!
🐴Why Equine Dentistry Matters
1. Promotes efficient chewing and digestion
2. Prevents painful ulcers and sores in the mouth
3. Improves bit comfort and riding performance
4. Reduces risk of colic and weight loss
5. Supports overall health and longevity
At-Home Signs of Dental Issues
🚩 Dropping feed or difficulty chewing
🚩 Weight loss despite good appetite
🚩 Head tossing or resistance to the bit
🚩 Excessive salivation or foul odor from the mouth
🚩 Undigested grain in manure
Recommended Dental Care Schedule
🦷 Foals: First exam at 6-12 months to check for developmental issues and assess sharp wolf teeth that can interfere with bit placement in the mouth.
🦷 Young Horses (2-5 years): Annual exams to monitor tooth eruption and alignment.
🦷 Adult Horses (5-20 years): Dental exams every 6-12 months to address wear and sharp points.
🦷 Senior Horses (20+ years): More frequent check-ups to manage tooth loss and age-related changes.
