Equine Dentistry Education

We’re excited to announce a special virtual course for veterinarians on advanced equine dental anatomy and imaging happening January 24, 2026. This intensive online event brings together top international experts to cover everything from in-depth anatomy to advanced imaging interpretation. Course Instructors: Carsten Staszyk Univ.-Prof. Dr. med. vet. Elisabeth Van Veggel DVM, Diplomate ECVDI, ISELP Certified Maurício José Bittar DVM Sebastian Greco DVM Nick Moore DVM This 8-hour course is designed for veterinarians at all levels who want to sharpen their skills in equine dentistry. Since it’s fully virtual, you can join from anywhere in the world. 📅 Date: January 24, 2026 🌍 Format: Live Online Webinar via Zoom 📚 CE Credit: 8 hours (applying for RACE) Veterinary Students: You can attend this course at a discounted rate! Please email us at mooredvmeducation@gmail.com to get registered. 👉 Learn more and register here: https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/product-page/advanced-equine-dental-imaging-and-anatomy-webinar Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this case study, we tackle one of the most challenging equine dental extractions—a 10/10 difficulty rating. This horse was referred to us with facial swelling and a bad tooth. While the diagnosis was straightforward using CT imaging, the treatment presented major obstacles: A “mushroom-shaped” tooth, wider at the root than the crown Significant tooth rotation Tight spacing between adjacent teeth All of these factors made extraction extremely difficult without risking damage to neighboring teeth or bone. In this video, we walk through the imaging, planning, and procedure step by step—including endoscopic guidance and careful segmentation cuts performed while the horse was standing. The surgery took three hours, but the outcome was a success: the diseased tooth was removed, surrounding structures were preserved, and the horse should now feel much more comfortable. 👉 Learn more about equine dentistry and continuing education: https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/ Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this video, we take a deep dive into the reality of equine dentistry—what’s being done right, what’s going wrong, and what can go horribly wrong in a horse’s mouth when poor techniques are used. You’ll learn: ✅ Why visual exams are critical in dentistry ✅ The serious risks of over-floating and blind procedures ✅ How horse teeth really work (spoiler: they don’t grow forever!) ✅ What “secondary dentin” is and why it matters for tooth health ✅ How improper dentistry can kill teeth and lead to painful abscesses ✅ What to look for when choosing someone to do your horse's teeth ✅ A real-life case of dental damage and abscess caused by bad floating We also showcase a fantastic dental model by Dr. Sebastián Greco that helps explain complex anatomy to clients. 👀 If you care about your horse’s long-term health, don’t miss this! 📚 This video is for owners, equine professionals, and anyone involved in equine health who wants to better understand what proper dentistry should look like. If you are an equine veterinarian interested in expanding your skills in equine dentistry, join us at https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/ 👉 Like, subscribe, and leave your questions in the comments! Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this video, we dive deep into a critical topic in veterinary medicine: mental health, especially as it relates to equine dentistry. Drawing on over two decades of hands-on experience, I share personal insights into how mindset — particularly the difference between a scarcity mindset and an abundance mindset — can shape not only your success but also your well-being in this challenging profession. 🚫 Are you focused on what others are doing? ✅ Or are you investing in becoming the best version of yourself? Topics we cover: The mental health crisis in veterinary medicine Toxic comparison culture in equine dentistry Why mindset matters: scarcity vs. abundance Mastery over competition The danger of tying your identity too closely to your profession How to build community instead of isolation Keys to long-term career fulfillment and avoiding burnout Whether you're a new grad or a seasoned vet, this is a call to focus inward, pursue true excellence, and build a career rooted in passion, growth, and community. 🔔 Subscribe for more insights on veterinary life, equine dentistry, and professional development. 👇 Drop a comment below — How do you stay motivated and mentally healthy in your practice? Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/ Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this video, we take you behind the scenes of a veterinary clinic specifically optimized for equine dentistry. After visiting clinics around the world, we’ve seen one common issue—most spaces aren’t designed with the horse (or the dentist) in mind. Whether it’s a high-end facility or a small rural clinic, many setups make dental procedures harder, riskier, and less efficient than they need to be. We’ll walk you through key design improvements that can make a huge difference in both safety and workflow. Topics Covered: The importance of clinic flow and stock placement Why dead-ending stocks into a wall is a mistake Safe and stress-free setups for both horses and staff The ideal head support system (and why most are too short!) Our custom-built mini horse ramp Practical tips that don’t require a big budget How small changes can lead to big improvements in patient outcomes This isn't about fancy equipment—it’s about smart, horse-centered design. From ceiling-mounted bars to proper drainage and visibility, you'll learn how to make your clinic safer, more functional, and better for equine patients. Questions? Contact us any time—we’re happy to share what we’ve learned. For more equine dentistry tips and clinic setup advice, be sure to subscribe and hit the notification bell. Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/ Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In today’s case, we tackle a complex equine dental surgery involving the extraction of two severely fractured upper cheek teeth (#109 and #209) in a 6-year-old horse. Both teeth had no visible clinical crowns and were complicated by infection, granulation tissue, and abnormal tooth rotation — all contributing to a very challenging surgical scenario. We walk you through the full diagnostic and surgical process, including: Radiographs and CT scan imaging Intraoral endoscopic views Surgical planning Minimally invasive standing extractions Management of draining tracts and periodontal disease Despite the severity of the case, we successfully removed both teeth on the same day, using advanced tools and techniques — all while the horse remained standing. This was a special case due to the horse’s rescue background and travel limitations, making a one-time procedure the best option. 📸 CT imaging, intraoral views, and X-ray updates throughout 💉 Standing, minimally invasive technique 🐴 6-year-old rescued horse ⏱️ Approx. 1 hour per extraction 🔔 Subscribe for more equine dental cases, surgical insights, and behind-the-scenes veterinary care. Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/ Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

Most people think extracting a horse's tooth solves the problem, but that’s only the beginning. In this video, we dive into a critically overlooked topic in equine dentistry: post-extraction care and occlusal equilibration. When a horse loses a tooth, the surrounding teeth don't just sit still—they drift, and the opposing tooth may overgrow into the empty space, leading to serious secondary malocclusions. These imbalances can impact the horse's ability to chew, causing long-term issues if not properly addressed. 🐴 Topics covered: What happens to a horse’s mouth after tooth extraction The concept of dental drift and over-eruption Why floating teeth is not enough The importance of balancing the mouth (occlusal equilibration) Real-life case of a horse with bilateral fractured upper 9s Why specialized training and instruments are essential Whether you're a veterinarian, equine dental professional, or a horse owner eager to learn more—this video sheds light on the art and science of post-extraction dental care. 📹 Stay tuned for case footage (note: shot solo, so not top quality) to see real-world examples of how proper post-extraction planning makes a huge difference in a horse’s health and comfort. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this valuable! Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/ Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this video, we take you behind the scenes of a complex equine dental case that highlights the importance of integrative care in veterinary dentistry. From advanced imaging to occlusal balancing and surgical extraction, this case underscores why successful outcomes depend on a multi-disciplinary approach. 📌 Case Overview: A horse was referred with a draining tract on the lower jaw—an indicator that often points to a serious dental issue or possible jaw fracture. Radiographs confirmed a severely abscessed, fractured tooth but no bone break, allowing us to proceed with a detailed intraoral exam and eventual extraction. ✅ Key Topics Covered: Diagnostic imaging and radiographic evaluation Occlusal imbalance due to compensatory chewing Identification of shear mouth and height differences Step-by-step clinical observations and decision-making Why tooth removal is only one part of long-term treatment These videos are not a step-by-step instructional guide. Instead, it’s designed to educate horse owners, veterinarians, and technicians about what to look for and how trained professionals approach complex equine dental cases. 📚 Interested in learning more? If you're a vet or technician wanting deeper training, consider attending the Academy of Equine Dentistry in Glenns Ferry, Idaho. It's a leading resource where professionals collaborate to deliver top-tier dental care. https://equinedentalacademy.com/wp2/ Depending on what part of the world you live in, we're happy to point you toward the right training resources, depending on your location and background. Just email us at mooredvmeducation@gmail.com We also offer a variety of educational courses for Veterinarians at https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/ 👉 Don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and Share if you find this content valuable! Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/ Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this video, we walk you through a real case of equine dental pathology involving infundibular caries—a developmental condition that can lead to tooth fractures in horses. Using an oral endoscope, we show you exactly what these issues look like inside the mouth, how they progress, and the advanced restoration techniques used to treat them. You’ll see: ✅ How developmental issues lead to structural weakness ✅ Step-by-step endoscopic visualization of carious lesions ✅ Cleaning and prepping the infundibulum ✅ Composite filling process using acid etch, bonding agent, and dual-cure composite ✅ A look at the fully restored tooth and its excellent prognosis This is a must-watch for veterinarians or anyone interested in equine dental care. If you're a vet looking to expand your skills, we also offer training courses on how to diagnose and perform this type of procedure. 👉 Like, share, and subscribe for more veterinary insights and procedures. 👉 Read more at https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/post/how-to-save-a-horse-tooth-infundibular-caries 👉View upcoming courses at https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/equine-dentistry-courses 📩 Contact us for more information at mooredvmeducation@gmail.com or mooredvmoffice@gmail.com Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this video, Dr. Mauricio Bittar from Brazil joins us to walk through a challenging equine dental case involving a fractured upper premolar (#208) that had resisted multiple extraction attempts. Together, we discuss the pros and cons of different extraction techniques—including repulsion, transbuccal screw extraction, and our preferred intra-oral segmentation extraction method. This case highlights the importance of efficiency, precision, and teamwork in equine dentistry—and why proper diagnostics go beyond X-rays. Whether you're a veterinarian, vet tech, or equine enthusiast, there's plenty to learn from this real-world example. 👉 Like, subscribe, and comment if you want more content like this! Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this video, we break down a common misconception: antibiotics do NOT cure dental disease. While they can help control secondary infections, they don't fix fractures, pulp infections, or necrotic tissue. We walk you through a real case of a horse with a subtle tooth chip and a history of sinusitis. Although X-rays looked normal, a CT scan revealed severe pulp necrosis — something antibiotics could never resolve. Key takeaways: ✅ When antibiotics are helpful (and when they aren’t) ✅ Why advanced imaging like CT can be crucial ✅ The "iceberg" effect of dental disease — what you don't see matters most If you’re passionate about equine dental care, veterinary medicine, or just curious about how we diagnose and treat these hidden issues, you’ll find this case fascinating! 👉 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more case studies and dental insights! 👉 Join our newsletter for more! 👉 If you are a Veterinarian or Veterinary Student, check out our equine dental education modules at https://www.mooredvmeducation.com/equine-dentistry-courses Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this video, we’re diving into the common misconceptions surrounding EOTRH (Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis) — a painful and often misunderstood dental condition in horses. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, including claims that NSAIDs or antibiotics can "treat" EOTRH. Let’s be clear: while they may reduce symptoms temporarily, they do not address the root cause — and in many cases, they can lead to unnecessary suffering. Why antibiotics and NSAIDs aren’t cures Why extraction is often the only way to bring lasting relief Real-life examples and images of infected teeth How poor advice online can do more harm than good Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this video, we examine an 11-year-old mare struggling with weight issues and uncover a painful dental condition affecting her ability to eat properly. This horse recently had a routine dental by their regular equine dentist, who noticed something wasn't right on the lower quadrants and referred her to us. Using an endoscope, we identify shifted and deviated teeth causing food packing and cheek injuries. We performed the extractions to relieve her pain and improve her quality of life. The transformation will be significant! If you found this video helpful, don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more equine care insights. Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

In this video, we examine a horse that was referred for a dental evaluation. Radiographs and an oral endoscope revealed multiple dental pathologies, including a fractured tooth and deep infundibular caries. We perform extractions and a restoration procedure to prevent further complications. We also discuss the importance of regular oral exams—since a horse's body condition score doesn’t always reflect dental health. Many horses mask pain and continue eating despite severe dental issues. This case highlights why yearly dental check-ups are essential for equine well-being. If you found this video helpful, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more equine dentistry insights! Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses

Happy New Year, everyone! As we embark on a new year, it’s crucial to reflect on the intent behind our actions, particularly in areas that often go under-discussed in veterinary medicine—such as equine dentistry. Today, I want to explore the importance of intention in this field and challenge the motivations driving professionals in their practice. With increasing interest in veterinary dentistry, more clinics are looking to expand their services in this area. This raises an essential question: why? Why do we choose to offer a particular service, develop a skill, or acquire a tool? As veterinarians, we are licensed to do a wide range of procedures, but that doesn’t mean we should perform them all. The intent behind our actions must align with our core mission to help animals. Consider this: Are you learning dental procedures like extractions because you want to alleviate equine dental pain? Are you fascinated by the subject and eager to grow professionally? Or are you primarily focused on adding a revenue stream to your practice? While all motivations are valid to some extent, focusing solely on profit can lead to poor outcomes for patients and practitioners alike. Veterinary medicine is undeniably a business. Clinics must be profitable to invest in continued education, advanced tools, and the well-being of their staff. However, the profession’s foundation is an oath to care for animals who cannot advocate for themselves. Striking a balance between financial sustainability and ethical practice is vital. Being overly altruistic without a viable business model can lead to financial and emotional burnout, rendering us unable to help anyone. Conversely, prioritizing profit over care can erode the values that drew us to veterinary medicine in the first place. It’s a delicate paradox, and finding equilibrium is key. Equine dentistry is more complex than many realize. Procedures like extractions demand more than just the right instruments; they require profound knowledge, diagnostic skills, and experience. Unfortunately, some view these procedures as a quick way to boost income without fully understanding their intricacies. Training in equine dentistry is not about checking off a procedural list. It’s about developing a deep understanding of a horse’s oral health and the skills to make accurate diagnoses. Without this foundation, mistakes—such as extracting the wrong tooth or performing unnecessary procedures—become all too common. Equine dentistry is far from boring. Each horse’s mouth is a complex, fascinating “galaxy” requiring specialized care. Yet, misconceptions persist. Some professionals reduce dentistry to routine tasks like filing sharp points, overlooking its potential to transform a horse’s well-being. This lack of understanding reflects a deeper issue: a need for greater wisdom and curiosity within the profession. When we approach dentistry with genuine interest and a desire to help, we unlock incredible opportunities to improve the lives of our patients and deepen our professional fulfillment. Starting the new year with clarity of intent is vital. Veterinary dentistry—like any specialized field—deserves respect, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. By prioritizing our patients’ welfare and embracing the challenges of skill acquisition, we can ensure that our profession continues to thrive ethically and compassionately. Thank you, and here’s to a meaningful and impactful year ahead. Brought to you by Nick Moore D.V.M. http://www.mooredvm.com Keyword: Horse dentistry, equine dentistry, horse floating, floating teeth, veterinary dentistry, equine dental surgery, equine dental procedures, tooth extraction in horses, tooth infection in horses, broken teeth in horses, dental fractures in horses, horse vet, horse doctor, wolf teeth, natural dentistry horses, equine dental education, abscessed tooth on a horse, root canal in horses, dental care in horses, animal dentistry, veterinary education, veterinary training, how to float horse teeth, do horses need dentistry, draft horse, quarter horse, mustang, warmblood, dressage, thoroughbred, hunter-jumper, barrel racing, team roping, rodeo, horse racing, horse health, geriatric horse, horse rescue, pleasure horse, horse disease, horse feed, horse diet, sinus infection horses, sinusitis horses, sinus disease horses, Moore equine, Texas horse vet, aaep, dental specialist horses