748 THE EXTERIOR OF THE HORSE. 



The tables of the molars, instead of meeting each other on an 

 almost horizontal plane, are sometimes worn down so obliquely that 

 they become almost parallel to the median plane and overlap each 

 other like the blades of a pair of shears (Fig. 324). 



FIG. 324. Bevelled molars from irregular wear. 



This obliquity of the surfaces of friction enables the external side 

 of the superior molars and the internal of the inferior to frequently 

 acquire an enormous length, even to the extent of injuring the parts 

 around the crowns, either the hard palate above (inferior molars), or, 

 below, the bottom of the pouch of the cheek (superior molars). 



French authors designate the teeth worn in this manner molaires 

 en ciseaux, from their resemblance to a pair of shears. 



Their mode of formation is easy to comprehend : 



If a horse masticates on the right side, for example, it will be 

 understood that the left molar arcades no longer rub against each other ; 

 the inferior is displaced inward from the superior, and it is only by its 



