Services &
Equipment
A modern, scientific, evidence based approach to equine dentistry, combining the most up to date techniques, procedures and materials from both the human and veterinary dental fields.
SERVICES
Give your horse a professional equine dental treatment.
The American Dental Association defines dentistry as “the evaluation, diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment (non-surgical, surgical or related procedures) of diseases, disorders and/or conditions of the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and/or the adjacent and associated structures and their impact on the… body”.
This statement is equally as relevant to equine dentistry as it is to human dentistry and the idea that dentistry is just ‘rasping off some sharp points’ is very out-dated and misinformed. Many of the most painful conditions affecting our equine patients such as dead, infected, abscessed teeth, or many cases of periodontal disease can only be seen, they can’t be felt. This means a thorough oral examination using a powerful light, a mirror or endoscope, a full mouth speculum and a relaxed patient, are essential.
We can provide advanced dental procedures and treatments, as well as routine dental maintenance, which always includes a thorough oral examination as standard practice. We are trained and experienced in providing dental restorations (‘fillings’), endodontics (‘root canal’ treatments), treatments for advanced periodontal disease and offer referral services to other veterinarians and dental technicians.
Routine Dental Maintenance
Ensure small problems don’t become big problems with a thorough dental examination and treatment. Routine dental maintenance is essential for your horse’s health and comfort.
Advanced periodontal disease
We are very proactive on treating this very common and painful condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential and can prevent or relieve a huge amount of oral pain.
Incisor and Canine Restorations
Some horses need ‘fillings’ too! Just as with human teeth, horse teeth can suffer from caries or ‘decay’. Early diagnosis and treatment can often prevent serious and painful consequences.
Infundibular restorations
Sometimes the cheek teeth need ‘fillings’ as well! Horse’s upper cheek teeth each have 2 central structures known as infundibulae which can be prone to a developmental defect and require restoration.
Endodontics
We are also able to do ‘root canals’ on horses! If a tooth is irreversibly injured and the pulp canal is open to infection it can be very painful. Endodontics allows us to remove the infection and relieve the pain, whilst saving the tooth.
EQUIPMENT
We take pride in ensuring our patients receive the most up-to-date treatments with the best equipment and facilities available. We have oral endoscopy so we can take photographs and video while closely examining inside your horse’s mouth, digital radiography (x-rays), an IM3 Dental unit (with high and low speed drills, water, air, suction and special attachments to treat periodontal disease – just like your human dentist), ultrasound and significant equipment for more advanced and routine dental procedures.
Routine and advanced treatments are done using power equipment, as it is more precise, quicker and allows us to treat the entire dental arcades. Our patients are also given a light sedation to ensure we can do a thorough examination and to ensure the horse is relaxed and comfortable during the procedure.
We have considerable veterinary training and experience and have completed extensive education in dentistry. As such we fully understand the use of medications and power dental equipment and thoroughly appreciate their advantages and potential risks and how to minimise these risks. We also have a thorough understanding of the anatomy and physiology of your horse’s teeth and mouth so we are able to treat your horse safely and comfortably.
Oral Endoscopy
Oral endoscopy allows you to see what we are seeing
Digital Radiography
X-rays at the clinic or at your property, we are always prepared!
IM3 Dental Unit
Wouldn’t be a proper dentist without the dental machine!