Routine Dental Exams

Routine dental examinations are an important part of equine ownership, even when your horse appears healthy. Identifying sharp points, dental abnormalities, periodontal disease and other issues early can help prevent discomfort and more serious complications.

Signs that may indicate your horse needs a dental examination include:

• Changes in eating habits or appetite
• Dropping or quidding hay and feed
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Weight loss or difficulty maintaining body condition
• Excessive salivation
• Foul odor from the mouth
• Facial swelling or sensitivity around the jaw
• Resistance to the bit or changes in performance
• Head tossing, tilting or shaking while eating or being ridden
• Undigested feed or long strands of hay in manure

🦷 Don’t wait for a red flag. Regular dental care helps support your horse’s comfort, nutrition, and overall health. Dental disease can develop gradually, and horses may not show obvious signs of discomfort until a problem has progressed. Knowing the warning signs can help identify dental issues early and keep your horse eating comfortably. 

Contact Skillman Veterinary Services to schedule your horse’s dental examination.