Complete Oral Exam
After arrival, setup and a brief general exam and history, your horse will be sedated and a complete examination of the head and dental structures will be examined and documented.
Based on the exam, the teeth are "floated" to remove sharp enamel points as well as correct malocclusions such as wave complexes, hooks, ramps, steps, etc.
Odontopasty "Floating"
Other Treatments
Sometimes, the oral exam indicates other diagnostics or treatment may be necessary. This may include radiographs, or periodontal treatment such as cleaning trapped feed from between teeth. These diagnostics or treatment are discussed as needed.
Following treatment, sedation wears off over 1-3 hours. During this time, it is important that feed is withheld to prevent choking and the horse is kept in an area with even footing free of hazards. After this period, most horses can resume their normal routine.
Follow-up
How to Prepare
Generally, exams are performed either in an aisle way or in a horses's stall. Please have horses caught and haltered prior to scheduled arrival. Ideally, minimize stress/anxiety by keeping herd-bound horses together. Feeding hay/grass or apples/carrots is ok, but please avoid sticky treats or biscuit type treats as these are difficult to remove for complete examination.