What does It Mean to Float Teeth in Horses?

Many people who deal with equines in their lives have experienced floating teeth at some point or another. The term “floating teeth” sounds a bit strange to people who are not familiar with equine dentistry, and although it conjures up a bizarre image of teeth floating around in mid air, it is actually an important part of dental care for horses. When a horse's teeth are floated, a veterinarian or equine dentist uses a specialized dental rasp, also called a float, to file down the teeth so that they are even. Floating teeth is necessary for most domestic horses at least every couple of years, and horse owners should give their animals regular checkups to ensure that their teeth are healthy, even, and not painful.

Unlike human teeth, horse teeth grow throughout their lives. This is because in the wild, horses eat a wide variety of fodder, some of which contains abrasive substances like silicates which wear down the teeth. When a horse eats normally, grinding food between the back teeth, the abrasives wear the teeth down, keeping them even and smooth. However, when a horse eats a softer diet, like one containing a lot of alfalfa and grains, the teeth do not wear evenly, and they can form sharp, painful points. Floating teeth is necessary at this point to eliminate the sharp edges.

A horse with teeth in need of floating tends to be very mouth shy, because the sharp teeth are cutting into the horse's cheeks and causing pain. The horse may also have difficulty eating, start dropping food from its mouth, not be able to chew properly, begin losing weight, salivate a lot, and pass unchewed food through its digestive system. In extreme cases, the horse's mouth may start bleeding, indicating the need for an immediate dental appointment. Floating teeth will restore the horse's normal attitude, as well as improving its health and mental well being.

A specialized halter is used for floating teeth to pull the horse's head up and secure it. Many horses are also lightly sedated for the procedure. If the veterinarian is using a traditional rasp for floating teeth, he or she will file gently away at the teeth to smooth them down and remove rough patches. Some veterinarians prefer to use power tools for floating teeth, which must be used cautiously so that too much is not filed away. It is also important that the teeth do not become excessively smooth, as this will also cause problems with eating and digestion.

Floating teeth refers to the process of filing down the sharp edges or points on a horse's teeth. This is necessary because horses' teeth continually grow and can develop uneven wear patterns, leading to discomfort and difficulty chewing. A veterinarian or equine dentist uses specialized tools to smooth the teeth, promoting better oral health and comfort.

Regular floating is crucial for a horse's health. Sharp points can cause pain, leading to issues with eating, weight loss, and behavior. Additionally, dental problems can affect a horse's performance and overall well-being. By maintaining a smooth dental surface, horses can chew more effectively, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption.

The frequency of dental floating varies with each horse but generally should be done annually. Some horses may require more frequent attention, especially older horses or those with dental abnormalities. Regular check-ups by a professional can determine the specific needs of each horse, ensuring optimal dental health.

Floating a horse's teeth is a skilled procedure that should be performed by a professional, such as a veterinarian or a certified equine dentist. These experts have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to safely and effectively perform the procedure without causing harm to the horse or themselves.

Signs that a horse may need its teeth floated include dropping food while eating, weight loss, bad breath, excessive salivation, resistance to the bit, or changes in chewing habits. Behavioral changes such as head tossing or reluctance to eat may also suggest dental discomfort that floating could address.

When performed correctly by a professional, floating should not be painful for the horse. Sedation may be used to relax the horse and prevent stress or movement during the procedure. Afterward, the horse may experience some sensitivity, but this is typically mild and temporary as the mouth adjusts to the smoother tooth surfaces.