Also known as sow mouth (underbite) or parrot mouth (overbite), these malocclusions of the incisors are genetically based. Some dental issues can be corrected if they are caught and dealt with early enough in a foal's life. That's why it's important for the young foal's mouth to be inspected early and regularly by an equine dentist.

This groove starts at the base of the tooth, making its first appearance at around ten years of age. The groove grows out with the tooth and recedes off the bottom as the tooth elongates. At around age thirty, the groove disappears off the tooth. The Galvayne's groove is often used to estimate the age of the horse. The old sayings “long in the tooth,” and “never look a gift horse in the mouth” originate from the practice of looking at the horse's teeth to determine its age.

If the molars wear unevenly, they can develop sharp edges, called points. As a result, the horse may experience discomfort, lose food out of his mouth, have difficulty chewing, or perhaps even drool. A horse that cannot chew properly may not get the full nutritional benefit of his food. Observe your horse's eating habits routinely so you will know what is normal for him. If you notice that he begins to spit out bits of food while chewing or leave partially chewed bits behind in his meal bucket, have his teeth inspected by an equine dentist.

The adult horse's teeth should be checked annually for proper wear. A veterinary dentist will examine the teeth both visually and manually using a speculum to keep the mouth open. Sometimes it is necessary to sedate the horse to carry out the inspection. If the vet finds sharp edges from uneven wear, she will rasp the teeth with special tools. Rasping brings the teeth back to an even grinding surface again. This procedure is called “floating” the teeth.