Q: I recently bought a mare from a sanctuary, which told me I would have to get a vet to remove the tartar from her teeth. Is this really necessary, as I don’t want to cause the horse anymore stress, especially if it involves an operation.
A: Do not worry about the process of removing the tartar (sometimes known as calculus or plaque) - it should not cause your mare too much stress. Some horses are more prone to tartar build up than others, and may need to have it removed every six months or so.
Tartar usually builds up on the canine teeth, usually only found in geldings and stallions, as these are the ‘fighting teeth’ and are not used during the eating process. Tartar can also build up on the edges of the incisors (front teeth) and molars (cheek teeth). One reason for this build-up can be a painful mouth. Normally, as the horse grinds its food, the forage moves through the teeth cleaning them as it goes. Unfortunately, sharp or uneven teeth can restrict this grinding action and reduce the effectiveness of this natural cleaning method. A lack of access to sufficient forage can also result in less cleaning taking place.
Your equine dental technician or vet should be able to pick away at the tartar, and most horses will stand quietly while this is carried out. It is important that your mare's teeth are regularly checked to prevent sharp teeth and a painful mouth from forming. Again, this should not cause your horse any stress, and is vital to maintaining her well being.