Can Dental Pain Affect My Horse’s Performance?
- Dr Chris Pearce
- 5h
- 3 min read
For any animal, or human to perform to their full potential, they must be pain-free. In the horse world we readily accept that back pain or lameness affects a horse’s performance, but dental pain is often overlooked and is something that can have a profound impact, even if it’s less obvious. Dr Chris Pearce veterinary surgeon and dental specialist from the Equine Dental Clinic looks at the importance of good dental practices for your horse and the impact it may have if it’s overlooked.
Why Dental Pain Matters
Dental pain in the horse might not produce visible signs like lameness, but it can still be performance-limiting.
In people, even mild dental pain is known to cause irritability and anxiety, and isn’t the best state of mind for athletic performance.
During exercise, increased blood flow, elevated heart rate and general movement can all exacerbate underlying pain. Horses are naturally stoic and are often experts at masking discomfort. However, we do know that horses will subtly avoid chewing on a painful side of the mouth and this is something an owner might miss at feeding time, let alone under saddle, highlighting that these problems often exist but can go unrecognised.
Studies have shown that pain originating from other systems, not just the musculoskeletal system, can impair a horse’s ability to perform and dental pain is no exception.
Evidence From Research
In 2023, a study by Karma et al. investigated horses with cheek tooth abscessation. The researchers surveyed owners before and after dental extractions and the results were compelling. There was a statistically significant improvement in performance and behaviour after the affected teeth were removed. The study strongly supports the view that dental pain has a real impact on performance.
Further work by renowned vet Dr Sue Dyson has explored subtle signs of low-grade pain in performance horses. In her studies, horses that were not obviously lame still demonstrated poor performance, resistance to the bit, postural alterations, and changes in facial expression. These were all linked to underlying discomfort, showing that pain - dental or otherwise - does not have to be extreme to matter.
The Impact on Nutrition
In rare but severe cases, dental disease can impair a horse’s ability to eat, resulting in reduced calorie intake and poor nutrition. This could be due to bilateral periodontal disease, broken teeth, or pain that discourages chewing.
Poor nutrition, can seriously impact the horse. It can have a negative affect on muscle condition, stamina, and overall health, further impacting performance.
The Importance of Early Detection
Horses mask dental discomfort well, and because of this early detection is key. Regular sedated oroscopic examinations using a camera to inspect every tooth surface allow experienced vets to pick up on subtle problems before they become serious. These exams should be performed by a veterinary surgeon with proper dental training and equipment.
Catching issues early also means that modern, preventative treatments can be used, rather than waiting until disease progresses to the point of requiring extractions.
Early diagnosis = better outcomes, both for health and performance.
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This topic will be covered in greater detail at the Horses Inside Out Conference 2026. Chris will be discussing the link between dentistry, lameness and symmetry. This insightful session will explore the often-overlooked connections between dental health, musculoskeletal function and movement symmetry. Looking at the latest research Chris will challenge assumptions and highlight areas that need further investigation.
This presentation will deepen your understanding of how oral discomfort can influence biomechanics and contribute to lameness or postural issues and one you won't want to miss.
If you're keen to learn more about this subject, don't miss Dentistry, Performance and Beyond with Dr Chris Pearce, premieres on Wednesday 12th November 2025.
In this chapter of The Bare Bones of the Matter online series take a detailed look into equine dental health. Discover how dental pain can impact performance and the key issues every horse owner should be able to recognise. Plus, gain a deeper understanding of some of the most misunderstood areas of the head, including the hyoid, TMJ, and incisor balance.
Gillian and Chris also look at what a modern dental examination should include, helping owners understand what to expect.
In our next article Dr Chris Pearce looks at what you need to know to ensure your horse’s teeth are being properly cared for.
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