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| Dentistry: Also known as "floating". Teeth should be checked twice yearly. Horses teeth erupt from the gums throughout their lives. The upper and lower arcades (rows of teeth) do not line up evenly, so the teeth don’t wear down evenly on all surfaces. The outer edge of the upper arcade doesn’t get worn down and can form sharp points or edges. The same thing occurs with the inner edge of the lower arcade. This can cause lacerations and abrasions on the upper gums and on the tongue, thus making chewing painful. It can also make having a bit in the mouth uncomfortable. The upper and lower arcades also don’t line up evenly front to back. The front edge of the top 1st premolar has no surface to wear on, nor does the back edge of the last lower molar. Tall sharp points or ramps can develop. The back lower tooth can actually form a point that can stick up into the back jaw causing severe pain. "Floating" or using rasps to take off the sharp edges and cutting the tall ramps will prevent problems with eating, weight loss, bitting, and some behavior problems such as head shaking, avoiding the bit, and head shyness if associated with a tooth problem. |