Do all horse have to have their teeth floated? My long yearling has never had his teeth floated(I got him 4 months ago). He eats normally and doesnt have a problems with chewing. I noticed that when he yawns, his molars are a bit 'pointy' at some places.
If yes how often does it have to be done? and what is the average cost of it?
All horses should have their teeth examined at least yearly, most will need to be floated at that time, but some need it done more often and some can go longer between floats. By the time they're dropping food and showing discomfort from a bit they're way overdue.
The cost can vary significantly even in the same area based on the practitioner's experience and technique. Some will charge based on the severity of the points/ramps/waves/etc they're correcting. Some float manually, some use power tools. Most horses need to be sedated for the procedure to be done thoroughly, and in some states a licensed vet is required to administer it (you will find some unscrupulous "equine dentists" who do not have a DVM and administer sedative illegally)
I use a vet who no longer does general practice, but specializes in dental, acupuncture and saddle fitting. She charges a flat rate that covers power floating and as much sedative as needed.
I'd ask your normal vet if she does floats and/or if she knows a specialist that she recommends. At the very least, your regular vet should be able to examine the teeth to tell you if they need floating.
Mine are checked at their yearly exam and then appointments are made. I have a couple that are done twice a year and then some done yearly and another that is done every year and a half or so depending on what is needed....
I just had my mare's teeth done and was curious... How long will it be before I start seeing a difference in her weight? She was under weight for a couple months before I was told to get her teeth done. I would say she is about 100# underweight.
I had a mare who only needed her teeth floated twice in her life. She was checked every 6 months & passed away at 34 with all her teeth.
It all depends on the horse.
My horses will always be checked every year by the dentist. If they need work done, they'll get it.
The vet I use charges about $130 a horse (including sedation), but it also depends what all needs to be done.
My coming 2-yr-old will be getting his first check this spring.
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