Dentistry
Southwest Equine is known for its excellence in dentistry, and we collaborate with Midwest Veterinary Dental Specialists (MVDS) to bring the highest level of equine dental care to the horses of Arizona and the Southwest.
Our veterinarians excel at performing complete oral exams using a mirror or borescope to evaluate each individual tooth. We look for subtle cavities, periodontal disease, and open pulp horns that can put your horse at risk of future dental problems. We strongly believe that early intervention is critical for your horse’s health and well-being!
Routine Dental Equilibration, also known as floating, is offered in conjunction with complete oral exams (including using a mirror to examine each tooth) to ensure that our patients have healthy teeth.
Our veterinarians have been trained by Board Certified Veterinary Dental Specialists to diagnose and correct subtle abnormalities which may be affecting performance
Dental radiographs may be recommended if we find an abnormality on your horse’s oral exam such as a fracture, periodontal disease or an open pulp horn that may indicate your horse may have a problem deeper within the tooth roots. Our veterinarians are very comfortable obtaining and interpreting dental radiographs and guiding you on the “next steps” – either continuing to monitor or evaluation by a dental specialist.
Advanced Dentistry
We collaborate with Midwest Veterinary Dental Specialists to bring their expertise in tooth extractions, periodontal treatments, fillings, root canals, sinus surgery and facial fracture repairs to our patients.
Appointments with the Board Certified Dental Specialists require prior evaluation by a veterinarian at Southwest Equine or your regular veterinarian (who should provide a detailed oral examination and radiographs prior to the appointment with the specialists). Without detailed oral examination findings and radiographs we are unable to provide an estimate for services by the Dental Surgeons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is dentistry important for my horse?
Dentistry plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and well-being of your horse. At Southwest Equine, we are renowned for our excellence in equine dentistry, focusing on routine dental equilibration and advanced dental procedures to ensure your horse’s oral health.
What is Routine Dental Equilibration (Floating)?
Routine Dental Equilibration, commonly known as floating, is a vital aspect of preventive dental care. Our veterinarians perform complete oral exams, including the use of mirrors to examine each tooth. This process ensures that your horse’s teeth are healthy, and any subtle abnormalities affecting performance are diagnosed and corrected.
Why is a detailed oral examination necessary for Advanced Dentistry procedures?
For advanced dentistry procedures, including tooth extractions, periodontal treatments, fillings, root canals, sinus surgery, and facial fracture repairs, a detailed oral examination is crucial. We collaborate with Midwest Veterinary Dental Specialists to bring their expertise to our patients. To schedule an appointment with the Board Certified Dental Specialists, a prior evaluation by a veterinarian at Southwest Equine or your regular veterinarian is required. Detailed oral examination findings and radiographs are essential for providing accurate estimates for services by the Dental Surgeons.
How does Southwest Equine collaborate with Midwest Veterinary Dental Specialists?
Southwest Equine collaborates with Midwest Veterinary Dental Specialists (MVDS) to bring the highest level of equine dental care to the horses of Arizona and the Southwest. This collaboration ensures that our patients receive expert care, including routine equilibration and advanced dental procedures.
Can I get a dental appointment directly with Midwest Veterinary Dental Specialists?
Appointments with the Board Certified Dental Specialists from Midwest Veterinary Dental Specialists require prior evaluation by a veterinarian at Southwest Equine or your regular veterinarian. Your veterinarian should provide a detailed oral examination and radiographs before scheduling an appointment with the specialists.
How often should my horse receive routine dental care?
The frequency of routine dental care depends on various factors, including the age, health, and individual dental needs of your horse. Our veterinarians can provide guidance on the recommended schedule for routine dental equilibration.
What signs indicate that my horse may need dental attention?
Signs such as difficulty eating, dropping feed, weight loss, bad breath, and behavioral changes may indicate dental issues. If you observe any of these signs, it’s advisable to schedule a dental examination for your horse.