Wolf teeth
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Re: Wolf teeth
Bit seats are where the first premolars on the top and bottom are filed down at an angle back towards the throat. They are thought to reduce discomfort when tissue gets caught between the bit and the teeth, but the dentists I talked to say that they are seeing more long term damage to the teeth from the loss of the protective dentin layer and exposure of sensitive underlying tooth layers. It is a highly debated topic though.
Re: Wolf teeth
I had my palomino checked when 2 to get them pulled and he had none, my 2 girls ...having a brain cramp I have not had them pulled and i dont think they both have them, but they are both being bitted and riden with little issues, I think the 3 yr old was having an issue and it resolved , not sure she wont need the molars filed, but i dont think it is a wolf tooth issue. i think she might have a sharp molar in her cheek.
Re: Wolf teeth
IMO yes. As far as I'm concerned, pulling canines is never an option. Pulling wolf teeth is something that is commonly done. As for canines, IME, most are either left alone or just filed down a bit (very small amount, just enough to keep them from getting in the way). I think some may not even file them down. So until they get to the point where they are interfering with something, they probably don't need anything at all. Your vet or dentist will make their recommendation based on the individual case and go from there.
Here is a photo of a canine tooth that is counted as being "a bit long" by the dentist on the site where the photo came from, however I've seen much longer not cause problems.
http://www.myequinenetwork.com/Portals/…" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Re: Wolf teeth
I've personally never seen canines bother a horse (wolf teeth yes, but not canines). Usually the bit sits enough behind the canines not to be much issue. If he gets them on the top two just watch if they get close to making contact. I think you'll know if it bothers him somehow, but I'd still have your vet or dentist take a peek and make their call.
Re: Wolf teeth
I'm pretty sure you mean canine teeth. No, they do not need to be removed. If they become a problem the vet/dentist will sometimes file them down a bit, but they don't need to be removed. Many horses over 5 have them and never even have to have anything done to them.