Equine Dentals
At Vaquero Equine Hospital, we prioritize the comprehensive health of your horse, and dental care is a critical part of their well-being. Just as with any animal, proper dental care is essential for a horse's overall health, comfort, and performance. Dental issues can lead to a variety of health problems, including weight loss, poor performance, and behavioral changes, which is why regular dental evaluations are a vital aspect of equine health care. Serving Waco, McLennan County, and surrounding areas, our equine dental services focus on keeping your horse’s teeth and mouth in top condition.
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Why Dental Care is Important for Horses
Horses have unique dental structures that continue to change throughout their lives. Their teeth erupt continuously and are worn down by their diet and daily activities. However, this natural process can lead to uneven wear, sharp points, and even dental misalignments. When left untreated, these issues can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty eating. Dental problems in horses may lead to issues with digestion, as they are unable to properly chew and process food, which can impact their health, energy levels, and body condition.
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Regular dental exams help maintain a balanced bite, ensure effective chewing, and prevent more serious dental conditions. At Vaquero Equine Hospital, we recommend yearly dental exams as part of your horse’s routine care, with adjustments based on individual needs.
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Our Equine Dental Services
Our equine dental services cover a wide range of needs, from routine exams to specialized treatments. Here’s what to expect when your horse visits us for dental care:
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1. Routine Dental Examinations
Our dental exams begin with a thorough evaluation of your horse’s teeth, gums, and overall oral health. We use specialized equipment and lighting to carefully examine the mouth for sharp edges, uneven wear, and signs of dental disease. Regular examinations allow us to spot issues early on, ensuring they are addressed before they become more serious problems.
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2. Dental Floating
Floating is one of the most common dental procedures in horses and involves the filing down of sharp points and rough edges on the teeth. These sharp edges can cause discomfort and injury to the horse’s cheeks and tongue. Our veterinarians use both manual and motorized floats, depending on the horse's specific needs, to smooth out any rough areas and restore balance to the bite. Regular floating helps maintain a comfortable, functional bite and promotes efficient chewing.
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3. Treatment for Dental Abnormalities
In addition to routine care, we also treat various dental abnormalities, including hooks, ramps, waves, and other misalignments. These issues can interfere with the horse’s ability to chew properly, leading to discomfort and potential health problems. Our team is experienced in identifying and addressing these conditions, ensuring your horse’s mouth remains comfortable and functional.
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4. Tooth Extractions
In cases of advanced dental disease, tooth fractures, or infections, extractions may be necessary. Tooth extractions in horses require skill and precision, and our team has the expertise to perform these procedures with minimal discomfort to the horse. Extractions are performed under sedation to ensure the horse’s comfort and safety throughout the process.
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Partnering in Your Horse's Long-Term Health
Dental health is essential to your horse's overall wellness. At Vaquero Equine Hospital, we take a proactive approach to equine dental care, offering regular maintenance and advanced treatments to keep your horse healthy, happy, and performing at their best. By scheduling routine dental exams, you’re taking an essential step in supporting your horse’s long-term health, comfort, and quality of life.
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We invite you to contact us today to learn more about our equine dental services or to schedule a dental evaluation. Let Vaquero Equine Hospital help keep your horse’s mouth healthy and comfortable, so they can thrive in every aspect of their life.