Dr. Parker Joins International Association of Equine Dentists

Dr. Parker realized many years ago that equine veterinary dentistry has been in the "Dark Ages" for some time. Floating and rasping with a couple of hand instruments with no dental speculum in the mouth and only mild, if any, sedation is no longer adequate dental care for the horse. Dr. Parker has joined the IAED to service a more aware public with the intent of creating an equine dental profession to address the needs of the horse.

Equine dentistry has advanced by light-years in the last decade. We now know that there is much more involved in equine dentistry than rasping sharp points. We now have the scientific technology and finesse to accomplish preventive and restorative dentistry with less trauma and more benefit to the horse then ever before. Not only does the horse benefit from pain relief, but we also find, time and again, that performance is markedly enhanced.

Recent studies have shown that at least 80% of all domestic horses have significant dental abnormalities. Dr. Parker's experience with horses in this area supports this claim. Studies confirm that these dental abnormalities of wild horses are much less common and less severe than their domestic counterparts. All horses' teeth erupt throughout their lives. The harsh grasses of open range are the best natural tooth-floating device. The natural grass contains abrasive silicates that keep wild horses' teeth worn down properly. As wild horses chew grass, they use a larger lateral stroke of the jaw than is required for chewing our normal processes feeds, and this causes the teeth to wear down evenly. Unfortunately for their dental health, horses in Colorado do not receive all their nutrition from natural growing grass. They develop large, sharp hooks that cause ulceration of their cheeks as well as uneven chewing surfaces causing poor feed conversions.

Dr. Parker has taken great strides to perfect his dental knowledge and skills. He has attended a wide array of seminars on the subject to compliment his 15 years of experience dealing with horses and their unique dental challenges. He looks forward to the challenges of equine dentistry and encourages all his clients to give their horses the dental care they need and deserve. Call (719) 495-2508 to schedule your horse's dental exam today.