Imagine what your mouth would feel like if you never brushed your teeth or went to the dentist. For many horses, this is a painful reality. Dental (or periodontal) disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem in horses.
Common signs of dental disease include:
- Yellow or brown buildup (tartar) on the teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Excessive drooling
- Changes in eating or chewing habits
- Loose teeth
- Depression
Even if your horse doesn’t have these symptoms, we recommend that you have a veterinarian evaluate your horse’s dental health at least once a year. Bacteria and food debris accumulate around the teeth and, if left unchecked, will lead to deterioration of the soft tissue and bone surrounding the teeth. This decay can result in irreversible periodontal disease, tooth loss, and possibly expensive oral surgery.
Dental disease can also affect other organs in the body: Bacteria in the mouth can get into the bloodstream and cause serious infections in the kidneys, liver, lungs, and heart. If these problems aren’t caught and treated quickly enough, they can result in death. A physical exam combined with appropriate laboratory work can determine if infection in the mouth has spread.
Schedule your horse’s dental exam today! We can also help show you how to brush your horse’s teeth and recommend foods and treats that will help combat plaque and tartar buildup.