Equine Dentistry….Your Choice!
My name is Simon Vieweg, I have been working alongside my father Doug Vieweg as an Equine Dentist in the South of England for almost eight years.
On a daily basis I'm asked many questions about my profession, one of the most common questions, (apart from how much do you charge), is, am I qualified to be treating their horse? As the law currently stands, some parts of equine dentistry are an act of veterinary surgery.
Under DEFRA's guidance, this subject is currently being discussed between the three main equine dental associations (The International Association of Equine Dentistry, Worldwide Association of Equine Dentistry (UK), and the British Association of Equine Dental Technicians), the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and The British Equine Veterinary Association. We have been discussing how to formulate an exemption order to the largely outdated 1966 Veterinary Act. This would specify which equine dental procedures can be legally be carried out by Equine Dentists this will hopefully and finally make Equine Dentistry a recognised independent profession. DEFRA have approved certain training courses, but have not yet approved any examinations in equine dentistry.
So, even though there are many of us who have sat and passed equine dental exams recognised by one of the following associations - The International Association of Equine Dentistry, Worldwide Association of Equine Dentistry (UK), and the British Association of Equine Dental Technicians none of us are qualified in the eyes of the law.
It should be said that, the fact that the 1966 Veterinary surgeons Act qualifies all veterinary surgeons to carry out equine dental procedures legally, this doesn't necessarily indicate that all veterinary surgeons are trained and competent to practice equine dentistry. I work with many equine vets who gladly and confidently sedate horses for me everyday, and who also work closely with me on many dental cases. Often this proves to be an ideal solution, both professionals using our skills to maximum benefit to the horse.
Most competent equine dentists attend annual conferences, with continual personal development courses and have served an apprenticeship. Many have also attended equine dental schools in the USA, for introductory courses and continual personal development. It is advised that you choose a dentist that is an active member of one of the three dental organisations. These include The International Association of Equine Dentistry, Worldwide Association of Equine Dentistry (UK), and The British Association of Equine Dental Technicians.
What to expect of your chosen equine dentist:
• The equipment used should be scrupulously clean to prevent cross infection.
• The equine dentist should be able to clearly explain what they are looking for in your horse’s mouth, their diagnosis and necessary treatment plan, do not be afraid to question their findings, to gain further explanation.
• He or she should have a good understanding of how the horse's dental structure will ultimately affect its bio-mechanical function. (I would be able to tell an owner which rein the horse is most comfortable on, how the horse holds its head when ridden, and if the horse shakes its head, along with many other behavioural habits). Reading a horse’s mouth can un-ravel a detailed story about the animal.
• As I stated earlier a close, professional relationship between your vet and your dentist will always produce a better result.
• Your equine dentist should be thoroughly equipped to deal with most procedures; correct instrumentation is of the utmost importance. Visit our website for more detail. www.wedsltd.com. Or call on 01825 732 728.
• Sedation for dentistry would be useful for approximately 80% of horses when seen for the first time, this enables the practitioner to achieve optimum results by examining the mouth thoroughly. (Power tools can be used without sedation, but in my opinion, this is not advisable for remedial techniques, as the mouth cannot be sufficiently balanced on an un-sedated horse, and there is a risk of thermal damage should the instrument not be irrigated).
• Finally a non - aggressive approach is essential, even the most simple procedure can distress a nervous animal, manhandling will not get your horses teeth done properly, and could also put your horse at risk.
Simon Vieweg IAED/CA BEVA cert. Member of the board of directors of the IAED.
Westrow Equine Dental Service Ltd. 01825 732 728.
