Q: Can you tell me what
qualifications I should look for when choosing an equine dentist?
A: You are wise to look for a qualified equine dental technician (EDT)
to carry out work on your horse’s teeth, as although there are many unqualified
people working to a high standard, without having passed the appropriate exam
it can be difficult to know and see the standard of work they are carrying out.
With regard to what qualifications they should have, I would advise you to find someone who has passed the joint British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) and British Veterinary Dental Association (BVDA) exam. People who have passed this exam have not only proven to an examining board of vets and experienced dental technicians that their dentistry knowledge and work is of a high standard, but also that they are capable of carrying out advanced dental procedures if necessary, such as extracting wolf teeth. Only after passing this exam can the EDT become a member of the British Association of Equine Dental Technicians (BAEDT), which insists that they must carry the appropriate insurance to work on your horse.
There are other dentistry exams, such as from colleges in America and England, but only the BEVA/BVDA exam is recognised by the BAEDT. To help you find a qualified EDT in your local area, visit www.equinedentistry.org.uk.