Commonly Asked Questions 

 

 

Why does my horse needs its teeth floated? 

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This is one of the most frequently asked questions I receive. Unlike human teeth, a horse’s teeth continue to erupt throughout its lifetime. As a result, regular dental care is essential to maintain comfort, performance, and overall health.

 

Most horses benefit from an annual dental examination and float. This schedule allows us to identify and correct malocclusions, which are abnormalities in how the teeth align, before they develop into more serious problems. By addressing these issues early, we can help your horse chew more efficiently, reduce feed waste, enhance comfort under saddle, and prevent many avoidable health concerns.

To understand the impact, consider that a horse chews up to 50,000 times per day. If there is pain or discomfort in the mouth, chewing may become less effective, potentially leading to weight loss, behavioral changes, and reduced performance. In fact, studies show that up to 85% of equine health issues can originate in the mouth. Poor mastication can contribute to colic, choke, and malnutrition, while oral infections can even spread to vital organs such as the heart and brain.

 

Routine dental care is a proactive way to prevent these complications. Additionally, emerging research indicates that imbalances in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can lead to back and sacroiliac (SI) pain, which are common causes of lameness. As our understanding of equine health continues to evolve, one thing becomes increasingly clear: a horse’s well-being truly begins in the mouth.

 

My horse is fat and rides well. Why does it still need floated?

 

That is an excellent question. Many horses are remarkably stoic and may show little to no outward signs of discomfort, even when experiencing significant oral pain. It is not uncommon for horses in excellent body condition and performing well under saddle to have undetected dental issues, such as lacerations on the cheeks, tongue, or gums caused by sharp enamel points. In fact, we have encountered numerous cases where owners were shocked and moved to tears upon seeing the extent of their horse's dental issues for the first time.

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Some may argue that wild horses do not receive dental care. However, it’s important to note that wild horses have a significantly shorter average lifespan, approximately 12 years, compared to their domesticated counterparts. With proper care, domestic horses can live well into their twenties or thirties. Our goal is not only to extend the lifespan of your horse but to enhance their comfort, performance, and quality of life throughout those years.

 

 

How often does my horse need its teeth floated?

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Most horses benefit from an annual dental examination and float; however, individual needs may vary. Some horses experience more rapid dental growth or develop abnormalities that require more frequent attention, while others may have slower growth and maintain proper occlusion with examinations every 18 months. An appropriate dental schedule is best determined based on the specific needs, age, health, and oral condition of each horse.

 

 

What is a routine float? 

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A routine dental float serves to balance the equine mouth by removing sharp enamel points and correcting dental irregularities, such as hooks, to ensure optimal chewing efficiency and overall comfort. This procedure may also include the creation of bit seats, a contouring of the first major premolars, which are the teeth that come into contact with the bit and cheek. Bit seats help lift the bit off the sensitive bars of the mouth, reduce pressure on the tongue, and minimize the risk of cheek tissue being pinched between the bit and the teeth.

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What experience and education do you have? 

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I have been passionate about horses for as long as I can remember, having owned them since a small child. One of the most challenging aspects I encountered early on was finding equine dental care that was both high-quality and affordable. Too often, I found practitioners who relied heavily on sedation and restraint, creating stressful experiences for both horse and myself. In other cases, horses were handled roughly without sedation, leading to fear and lasting negative associations, even for my quiet, well-mannered animals. It became clear to me that there had to be a more compassionate, effective approach to equine dentistry.

 

Driven by this belief, I made the decision to attend the American School of Equine Dentistry, a choice that proved to be one of the most rewarding of my life. Since then, I have continued to grow in the field and now serve as a mentor and educator, sharing my knowledge and experience with others who share the same passion. I have attended countless professional conferences throughout the United States, including Texas, Florida, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. I also became an instructor at the American School of Equine Dentistry and have wrote several articles on various aspects of equine dentistry. 

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I firmly believe that continuing education is essential in all areas of healthcare, including veterinary medicine. My wife, a Nurse Practitioner, constantly engages in ongoing training, and I hold myself to the same standard in my practice. Equine dentistry, like all medical disciplines, continues to evolve. It wasn’t long ago that using a hoof rasp was considered standard practice for floating teeth. Today, with advanced tools and techniques, we can provide safer, more precise, and more humane care. There is always a better way and I am committed to finding and applying it for the benefit of every horse I treat.

 

My current clientele includes approximately 30 veterinarians, both equine and small animal, as well as riders and trainers competing at the top levels across nearly every equine discipline. I have had the privilege of working on horses that have competed in the Olympics, the Tevis Cup, and a wide range of international-level competitions. Regardless of discipline or background, my goal remains the same: to provide each horse with the highest standard of individualized dental care in a calm, respectful, and professional manner.

 

What areas do you serve?

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My wife and I own a farm north of Ocala, Florida and provide services to the entire state. To maximize efficiency and minimize travel costs, appointments are scheduled by region on designated days. This approach allows Sean to reduce travel time while providing cost-effective services to clients.​ Others areas are available upon request. 

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What do you charge for a farm call?

 

We do not charge a farm call. The price you see is the price you pay, there are no additional fees. 

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What hours do you work?

 

I am available days, evenings, weekends, and for emergencies.

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Do you offer any discounts?

 

I do offer discounts for barns with 4 or more horses floated at the same time.  

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What is your charge for an emergency call?

 

The cost of these calls vary on a case-by-case basis and typically involves collaborating with your Veterinarian. 

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Do You Sedate Horses for Dental Work?

 

No, I do not carry or administer any form of sedation. In fact, I prefer to work on horses without sedation whenever possible. In my experience, most horses tolerate routine dental floats extremely well without the need for sedatives, and I believe avoiding unnecessary sedation reduces risk to the horse. Many clients regularly comment on my calm, patient approach and horsemanship skills, noting how positively their horses respond. It’s not uncommon for clients to say, “I’ve always had to sedate my horse for dental work,” and then express surprise and appreciation when I am able to complete a thorough float with the horse remaining calm and cooperative—entirely without sedation.

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The equipment I use is manufactured by Dearson, a company known for producing some of the safest and most advanced tools available for equine dentistry. It is designed with safety in mind and is gentle enough to be placed against human skin while running at working speed without causing harm. I often demonstrate this to clients by allowing them to feel the equipment on their own fingers before it is used on their horse. Approximately 90% of the horses I float are unsedated. Numerous clients have shared videos on our Facebook page showing their unsedated horses standing quietly, sometimes even cocking a hind leg in relaxation, during their dental work, including young Thoroughbreds directly off the racetrack.

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Of course, as with people, some horses are more sensitive and simply will not tolerate floating without sedation. In these cases, I will collaborate with your Veterinarian. In some cases, your Veterinarians may require they be present to sedate your horse. Other circumstances may allow for the owner to sedate their own horse. For owners who prefer not to give injections, there is also an oral sedative gel available that is administered under the tongue and has proven effective in many cases. As with all medications, this product is available only through a licensed veterinarian, and I do not supply or administer it.

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Why Choose McCarthy Equine Dentistry?

 

While there are many equine dental providers available, McCarthy Equine Dentistry is built on a reputation for professionalism, compassion, and a commitment to doing things the right way—every time. I prioritize the comfort and well-being of each horse throughout the entire procedure, taking the necessary time and offering breaks to help them remain calm and relaxed both physically and mentally.

 

Client education is also a cornerstone of my practice. I take the time to thoroughly explain each procedure and answer any questions you may have. I believe owners and caretakers should be fully informed and involved in their horse’s care. Whenever possible, I will show you what is happening inside your horse’s mouth and allow you to feel the difference before and after treatment, so you can see the value of the work firsthand.

 

Transparency and fairness are also key principles of my practice. I do not add unexpected fees or upcharge for minor services. My pricing is straightforward and affordable, allowing you to prioritize your horse’s dental health without financial strain. This approach has led to a strong and loyal client base, built almost entirely through word-of-mouth referrals.

 

I currently serve as the Equine Dental Technician for approximately 30 veterinarians, trusted to care for their own personal horses, as well as numerous competitive show barns with horses performing at the highest levels, including national and international competition. An extensive list of references is available upon request. My goal is simple: to provide exceptional care that leads to healthier horses and satisfied clients who return year after year.

 

I See You’re Booked Out—What Should I Do If I Need Someone Now?

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If you’re in immediate need of equine dental care, it’s important to choose a qualified provider who can deliver safe, effective, and professional service. The first step in selecting a practitioner, whether a Veterinarian or Equine Dental Technician (EqDT), is to verify their certification. There are two primary professional associations that offer rigorous certification processes in equine dentistry: the International Association of Equine Dentistry (IAED) and the Equine Dental Providers of America (EDPA). Certification through these organizations ensures that the provider has met specific educational, technical, and ethical standards.

 

Next, ask for references. Recommendations from horse owners, barn managers, trainers, and other equine professionals can be helpful, but it is equally important to obtain references from licensed veterinarians. While most equestrians can speak to a practitioner’s demeanor or horsemanship, they may not have the expertise to assess the technical quality of dental work performed. A reputable practitioner should be able to provide you with a list of veterinarians who either refer clients to them or trust them to care for their own horses.

 

It is also essential to inquire about continuing education. Equine dentistry is a continually evolving field, with ongoing research, emerging technologies, and new techniques. Qualified practitioners should actively pursue professional development by attending conferences, workshops, and training programs to remain up to date on the latest advancements in equine oral health.

Additionally, responsible providers carry professional liability insurance to protect both their clients and themselves in the event of an unforeseen complication.

 

Finally, be cautious about judging the quality of care based solely on price. A higher fee does not always guarantee superior service, just as a lower cost does not necessarily equate to lower quality. Some practitioners charging premium rates may overlook significant malocclusions, while others who offer more affordable services—such as high-quality hand floats—may provide superior and more thorough care. Focus on the provider’s qualifications, experience, and reputation rather than price alone to ensure your horse receives the best possible dental care.