As horses age, their dental health becomes increasingly important. Over the years, the constant grinding of hard feeds and coarse hay causes significant wear and tear on their teeth. Unlike younger horses, whose teeth are generally smooth and well-aligned, older horses often develop irregular and uneven surfaces due to prolonged use. This natural wear process exposes the softer inner layer of the tooth, known as dentine, after the hard outer enamel has worn away. Because dentine is softer, it erodes more quickly, making older horses more susceptible to a range of dental issues, including tooth loss, broken teeth, and painful root abscesses.

What are the signs of dental problems in aging horses?

It’s crucial for horse owners to be vigilant about recognizing the early signs of dental problems. Some common indicators that your horse may be experiencing dental discomfort include:

• Holding the head sideways when chewing: This can indicate discomfort or difficulty in chewing food properly due to uneven or painful teeth.
• Dropping food from the mouth: Also known as “quidding,” this is a sign that your horse is struggling to chew and swallow food efficiently.
• Reluctance to eat: Painful teeth or gums can lead to a decreased appetite or a refusal to eat, potentially causing weight loss and poor nutrition.
• Bad breath: Foul-smelling breath can be a sign of dental decay or infection, such as a tooth abscess.
• Evading the bit when the bridle is fitted: If your horse resists when you try to fit the bridle, it could be due to dental pain, making it uncomfortable to have the bit in their mouth.
• Head tossing when bitted: Frequent head tossing while riding may be a response to discomfort caused by dental issues, as the bit can press against sensitive areas in the mouth.

Preventative Dental Care

To ensure your ageing horse maintains good dental health and overall well-being, it’s essential to have their teeth checked regularly by a professional. Horses over the age of 15 should have a dental examination every six months by a veterinary surgeon or a qualified equine dentist. Regular check-ups at Thrums can help identify problems early, prevent painful conditions, and maintain the horse’s ability to eat comfortably and efficiently. Early intervention not only improves your horse’s quality of life but can also extend their active years, keeping them happy and healthy well into old age.

Remember, proactive dental care is key to managing the challenges of ageing in horses. By staying on top of their dental health, you’re ensuring that your horse can continue to enjoy life to the fullest.