Dental Care

Horses teeth are a fundamental to their health as they are the means by which the horse procures and prepares its food. The teeth can also influence-ridden behaviour when dental issues interfere with the tack, primarily the bit.

There are no such things as ‘horse dentists’ (like human dentists who are highly skilled and specifically educated). However, in an effort to standardise the level of care given; the BEVA have started running examined courses in Equine Dental Care. Those qualified are called Equine Dental Technicians and we feel it is important to use only those with this fundamental level of competence.

Dental examinations and any subsequent treatment can take some time to perform so it is worth asking the Vet for an estimate and booking a specific appointment for dental work.

Why use Aireworth Vets for dental work?
As qualified Veterinary Surgeons we are trained to look at and assess the state of your horse’s mouth and are capable of rectifying any problems there may be.

Because of reduced grazing times and the nature of the way horses are kept  they do require routine dental attention. Pathological diseases and disorders are less common, but can be treated by the Vet.

There are some indications emerging now that over-zealous dental care, particularly that using powered instruments; can cause significant harm to the dental structures. Like humans, horses only get one set of permanent teeth and it is well worth looking after them appropriately.

How much does it cost?
The price for a Dental Health check is usually less than £20.00. A Dental Health Consultation including use of the Hand Rasp is usually less than £40.00. Although if your horse needs sedating this incurrs an additonal charge of approximately £37.00 depending on the medication required.
These routine manual dental treatments can be carried out on a Zone Visit (saving the cost of a normal call out). Click here to read about the benefits of booking a zone visit.

If the Vet advises that your horse needs the Power Rasp, this should be booked at a time and day suitable for you and your horse. The price for this type of visit would comprise a call out fee (depending on where your horse is stabled), the sedation cost, plus a charge for professional time depending on how long the rasping takes. All this can cost from approximately £125.00 ( assuming only 15 minutes of professional time). Power rasping is not available on a zone visit since specialised equipment is required.