How important are horse dentists?
Matt Scogin, an equine dentist, in addressing a 4-H group at the LASU Ag Center, stressed that if a horse's teeth are not floated regularly and taken care of, the horse cannot eat properly leading to health problems.
Using a medication to put the horse at ease, Scogin washed out the horse's mouth and using a speculum demonstrated how a dentist can work on the horse's mouth without getting bitten.
Scogin demonstrated his dentistry tools which are very expensive as he worked on the horse's mouth for about 30 minutes.
Scogin cautioned that “if you can’t afford to get their teeth done, you can’t afford a horse.” He said feed bills are usually lower after a floating because the horse won’t eat as much feed.
Horses grind their teeth from side to side, but they don’t have nerves like humans do. “Their teeth never quit growing,” he added. Males have 40 teeth and females have 36.
Scogin learned his trade at equine dentistry schools in Idaho and Texas.