Equine Dentistry

When is a Float Not Just a Float? An Introduction to Advancing Equine Dentistry


Floating horse teeth has traditionally been done by a variety of individuals and primarily has consisted of a sharp rasp on a handle that is passed back and forth along the teeth similar to teeth brushing. Historically floating was done without much sedation or without viewing the inside of the horse’s mouth, let alone concerns for gums or other periodontal structures. Modern equine dentistry approaches are quite different. We have speculums (a device used to hold the mouth open), lights, safer more accurate sedatives, pain relievers, radiographs, and power tools (addressed more below). We also have discovered that thorough dental care we can improve feed efficiency, comfort in bitting, and enhance performance. These are on top of extending tooth life and minimizing infection and dental problems.

First off let us address the speculum. This is term for a variety of devices that are used to hold the horse’s mouth open safely while the veterinarian can use both vision and touch to thoroughly explore the mouth. This allows for cavities, loose teeth, misalignment, broken teeth, gum disease and other issues to be discovered. The speculum also allows for the doctor to reach the back corners of the mouth as effectively as the front teeth. These teeth are often not floated effectively by traditional methods simply due to mechanics. A thorough exam with a speculum in place should be conducted at least once per year by a licensed professional. (side note: in the state of Colorado equine dentistry legally must be done by or under direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian especially when sedatives are used).

The next important tool in equine dentistry is the dentist. This individual should have a routine, systematic approach to fully evaluate the horse’s mouth. It is also the hands and experience of the dentist that determines the quality and outcome of the float. This is not based on rather the tool is a hand tool or a power tool. It is ultimately the hands that use it. I have seen a variety of power tools that are safe with minimal heat buildup and effective design (Swiss float, Power float, Flexi-float, HDE and others) while other tools are less refined and can be harsh on the gums, cheeks and tongue. I have also seen hand floats tear-up the inside of a mouth. Again I will reiterate: it is not the tools used but the hands that use them. It is well worth interviewing your equine dentist and/or veterinarian ahead of time to sort out any questions or concerns you may have. The advantage of power tools is the dentist has more control precision in the floating process over hand floats.

Gum tissue and periodontal disease is a new area of care in equine dentistry due to advances in equipment, tools, education and research. As with our own dental care prevention is key. If we catch problems early we can save teeth and improve health. It is through improved veterinary care that we are now seeing our companions live longer happier lives.

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Leticia German grew up in Montana around a vast array of animals. She came to Colorado in 1997 to pursue an education in veterinary medicine. Leticia attended CSU for Veterinary Medicine and holds a Bachelor degree in Animal Science and a Masters in Animal Nutrition. After receiving her DVM, Leticia worked for a time in California before returning home to Colorado. Leticia worked in the area for the last 3 years at a local clinic before venturing out on her own, with her business Front Range Equine & Livestock. She recently completed an extensive training course and is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist.
Dr. Leticia treats a wide variety of large and small animal species and her practice offers comprehensive, integrative care including acupuncture, soft tissue and trigger point therapy, rehabilitation plans, and nutrition consulting. She also provides general health services including vaccines, dental care, blood work, and preventative health care and makes house and farm calls for your convenience.
In addition to her passion for animal health, Leticia is a gourmet food hobbyist, and enjoys travel and fiber arts such as spinning, knitting and crochet. Leticia’s personal pet family consists of two cats, a dog and a Morgan mare that is her great joy. Leticia has spent many years training and bonding with her mare from the beginning stages and understands the great human animal bond regardless of species.

Leticia German, DVM, MS, CVA
Front Range Equine and Livestock, LLC
23850 Genesee Village Rd
Golden, CO 80401
(970) 420-5823