Dental disease in horses is common, with studies showing that up to 80% of horses over 5 years of age are affected. Common conditions include tooth tips and hooks, tooth root inflammation, periodontitis and EOTRH (dissolution of tooth structure).
Symptoms
The symptoms that indicate pain and functional disorders in the mouth are varied. The most common symptoms include:
- Poor appetite or refusal to eat
- Weight loss
- Chewing difficulties
- Food residue in the mouth
- Swelling and pain
- Bad breath
- Nasal or eye discharge
- Excessive salivation
- Changes in behaviour
- Problems with the snaffle bit
Causes
Dental disease in horses can be caused by a variety of factors, which often occur in combination. Here are the most common causes:
- Uneven tooth wear
Horses' teeth grow continuously and wear down as a result of chewing food. Uneven wear can lead to sharp tooth tips and hooks that cause injuries in the mouth. - Misalignment of the teeth
Congenital or acquired malocclusions can affect the natural wear of the teeth, leading to problems such as overlong teeth or gaps in which food debris accumulates and favours infections. - Feeding
The type of feed influences tooth wear. Horses that are predominantly fed soft feed such as pellets or silage often have insufficient tooth wear compared to horses that eat a lot of roughage such as hay or grass. - Genetic predisposition
Certain breeds or individual horses can be genetically more susceptible to dental diseases, for example due to a lower quality of tooth enamel or special jaw shapes. - Age
Older horses are more likely to suffer from dental disease as their teeth wear down over the years and become more susceptible to disease. In particular, they can be affected by tooth loss and diseases such as EOTRH.
- Infections
Bacterial infections can lead to tooth root inflammation and periodontitis. These infections can be favoured by injuries in the mouth, poor dental hygiene or systemic diseases. - Traumas
Injuries caused by external influences, such as knocks or blows, can damage teeth and lead to dental diseases in the long term. - Inadequate dental care
Horses that are not regularly examined and treated by a dentist have a higher risk of developing dental diseases. Regular check-ups are necessary to recognise and treat problems at an early stage. - Systemic diseases
Diseases such as Cushing's syndrome or diabetes can affect oral health and increase the risk of dental disease.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of dental diseases in horses requires a careful and systematic examination, which is carried out by one of our specialised vets. This begins with a detailed medical history, during which the owner is asked about any abnormalities in the horse's eating behaviour, weight loss or changes in behaviour. This is followed by a thorough clinical examination, during which the horse's mouth is inspected. This involves looking for signs of swelling, wounds, irregular chewing movements and food residue in the mouth.
The examination of the teeth itself is often carried out using a mouth gate to keep the mouth open and a special light source so that the rear molars can also be seen clearly. Our vet scans the teeth to identify irregular abrasions, sharp edges or hooks. The teeth are also checked for mobility to detect loose teeth that could indicate deeper problems.
In addition to the physical examination, diagnostic aids such as x-rays or endoscopies are often used. X-rays help to identify underlying problems such as tooth root inflammation or hidden caries that are not visible from the outside. Endoscopies allow a detailed examination of the oral cavity and sinuses in order to recognise possible diseases there.
This comprehensive diagnostic approach makes it possible to recognise dental diseases at an early stage and treat them in a targeted manner to ensure the well-being and health of the horse.
Treatment
Treatment of dental disease in horses usually begins with a thorough tooth cleaning and correction of unevenly worn teeth, often referred to as "tooth rasping". In this procedure, sharp edges and hooks are removed to prevent injuries in the mouth and promote even wear of the teeth.
Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication are often used to combat infections and alleviate pain in the case of inflammatory diseases such as tooth root inflammation or periodontitis. In severe cases, it may be necessary to extract affected teeth, especially if they are severely damaged or infected. We have the necessary technology and expertise for such procedures.
After a tooth extraction or other invasive treatment, careful aftercare is important to monitor healing and avoid complications. This includes regular check-ups and, if necessary, adjustments to feeding to minimise stress on the mouth and support healing.
Prevention
Regular dental examinations, at intervals of 6 - 18 months depending on individual needs, help to recognise and treat problems at an early stage before they have serious consequences. Adapting the diet, for example by feeding sufficient roughage, can also help to promote the natural wear and tear of teeth and prevent dental disease.
Together, these measures provide a comprehensive approach to the treatment and prevention of dental disease in horses, aimed at maintaining oral health and ensuring animal welfare.