## Overview Wolf teeth are small vestigial premolars that sit just in front of the first cheek teeth. They can interfere with the bit, causing head-tossing, resistance, or bit pain. Not all wolf teeth cause problems. Those that are large, displaced, or in the path of the bit are commonly extracted. ## Causes Interference between the wolf tooth and the bit. ## Diagnosis Oral examination. Behavioral signs under saddle support the decision to remove. ## Treatment Extraction of problematic wolf teeth. Unerupted or blind wolf teeth may also be removed if they cause pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent. Most horses are more comfortable in the bit afterward. ## Prevention Routine dental checks in young horses.
head-tossing; bit resistance; pain when the bit contacts the wolf tooth; visible or palpable wolf tooth
## Overview Wolf teeth are small vestigial premolars that sit just in front of the first cheek teeth. They can interfere with the bit, causing head-tossing, resistance, or bit pain. Not all wolf teeth cause problems. Those that are large, displaced, or in the path of the bit are commonly extracted. ## Causes Interference between the wolf tooth and the bit. ## Diagnosis Oral examination. Behavioral signs under saddle support the decision to remove. ## Treatment Extraction of problematic wolf teeth. Unerupted or blind wolf teeth may also be removed if they cause pain. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent. Most horses are more comfortable in the bit afterward. ## Prevention Routine dental checks in young horses.
head-tossing; bit resistance; pain when the bit contacts the wolf tooth; visible or palpable wolf tooth