Large overbites can be a conformational disorder or feeding the horse from heights which is associated with Dental Abnormalities in Horses.

This is not a parrot mouth – which is purely conformational with a large malocclusion between opposing incisors.

Overbites can be corrected with the right equipment at regular 6 monthly dental treatments.

Canine teeth, only present in male horses and sometimes the odd female horse. These teeth also known as ‘tusks’ are used for fighting. Overlong canines that are in contact will limit the range of motion of the jaw, causing discomfort.

Before treatment

After treatment: Clear gap seen between canines.
Credit: Steven Clarke (CEqD)

“Wolf teeth” are small pointed teeth that are situated just in front of the first premolar. If present, males and females can have them. Eruption takes place between 5-12 months. These teeth interfere with the bit and should be removed.

Dental abnormalities of the cheek teeth (premolars/molars) are mostly caused by poor dental care, abnormal wearing patterns that are diet-related and or developmental. Common problems dealt with are sharp edges, waves, steps, ramps, and hooks.

Shear mouth – Excessive steep table angles noted mostly on one arcade which limits lateral excursion (side-side) movement of the jaw. This makes mastication very difficult for the horse and will also make the horse one-sided when ridden.

Step mouth – When a tooth is missing or due to uneven wear an opposing tooth overpowers the other tooth that forms a large overgrowth, locking the jaw and limits anterior-posterior (forward and backward) movement of the lower jaw. The anterior-posterior movement of the lower jaw is extremely important for the horse when ridden as it affects head carriage and performance.

Wave mouth – Multiple teeth on an arcade are affected with low and high points on the arcade. This makes chewing difficult and will also affect performance. This is one of the most difficult conditions to treat, if these teeth are just leveled out there will be no contact between the arcades. Hence the necessity to reduce incisors as well.

Hooks – form on the first premolar when there isn’t contact with the lower jaw and is usually seen in an over-bite/ parrot mouth. Also caused when horses are fed from teff nets. This will affect the performance of your horse who will resist taking bit contact and going into a frame.

Ramps – Mostly seen on the first lower premolar and on the last lower molar. Usually the result of poor dental care.

Author: Dr Judi Uys (BVSc, Hons)