When it comes to caring for your horse, you probably think first about their hooves, skin, and diet. But there’s another vital area that’s easy to overlook — their teeth. Just like humans, horses rely on healthy teeth for comfort, proper digestion, and overall well-being.
Horses’ teeth grow continuously throughout their lives — as much as three millimeters each year. Without regular maintenance, uneven wear and dental abnormalities can develop, leading to pain, weight loss, and even behavior changes. Understanding the most common dental issues can help you spot problems early and keep your horse feeling their best.
Sharp Enamel Points
One of the most frequent dental problems seen in horses is the development of sharp enamel points. Horses chew in a circular pattern causing their upper and lower teeth to wear unevenly. The outer edges of the upper teeth and the inner edges of the lower teeth can form sharp points that irritate or cut the cheeks and tongue.
Common signs include dropping food, head tilting while eating, or resistance to the bit. What might look like fussy behavior is often a sign of discomfort — and it’s your cue to schedule a dental checkup.
Wolf Teeth
Wolf teeth are small, often non-functional teeth that appear just in front of the first premolars. About 70% of horses develop them, and while they don’t always cause issues, they can interfere with the bit. Most horses have these removed when they are young. Horses with problematic wolf teeth might toss their heads, resist bridling, or show discomfort under saddle.
Hooks and Ramps
Sometimes, a horse’s teeth don’t align perfectly. This can cause overgrowth on certain teeth — known as hooks (on the upper cheek teeth) or ramps (on the lower cheek teeth). These irregularities can restrict normal jaw movement, making chewing difficult and reducing feed efficiency.
The Value of Routine Dental Exams
Fortunately, most dental issues are easy to manage — and even easier to prevent — with regular care. Every horse should have a dental exam at least once a year. Older horses or those with a history of dental trouble may need more frequent checkups.
During an exam, your veterinarian will “float” your horse’s teeth — carefully filing down sharp points and correcting uneven surfaces. Healthy teeth mean a happier, more comfortable horse. By making dental care part of your regular wellness routine, you’re not just preventing mouth pain — you’re improving your horse’s ability to eat, perform, and enjoy life.