Unlike human teeth, a horse's teeth erupt continuously throughout most of its life to compensate for the constant wear of grazing. Left unchecked, uneven wear can create sharp points and hooks that cause pain, poor chewing, and behavioral problems under saddle.
The Basics
A horse's jaw is narrower on top than the grinding surface of the teeth, which naturally causes sharp edges to form on the outside of the upper teeth and inside of the lower teeth over time. Routine floating (filing) smooths these edges.
Common Problems
Sharp points, hooks, wave mouth, and uneven wear are among the most common dental issues, often showing up as dropped feed, head tossing while ridden, or reluctance to accept the bit.
A horse's teeth can grow roughly 2 to 3 millimeters per year, which is why regular floating is needed throughout its life, not just when problems appear.
How Often to Check
Most adult horses benefit from a dental exam once a year; young horses, seniors, and those with known issues may need checks every six months.
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