DISEASES AND TREATMENT OF THE HORSE 
125 
5. Sharp Edges on the Teeth. 
The grinders of the upper jaw are wider than those of 
the lower and pointed to the outside, while those of the 
lower are narrow and pointed in toward the tongue. This 
condition, when present, may be observed by opening the 
horse's mouth and drawing the tongue out to one side. 
Continual grinding causes the outer edges of the upper teeth 
to become sharp on the outside, so much so that they cut the 
cheek, and for the same reason those of the lower jaw become 
sharp on the inside and thus cut the tongue. If sharp teeth 
be suspected, place a twitch on the horse's nose. While an 
assistant holds the twitch, raise the head slightly and draw 
the tongue forward to one side with one hand, hold the cheek 
out with the other. Notice whether or not the tongue and 
cheek are cut, and also whether the edges of the teeth are 
very sharp. If such be the case the horse's mouth requires 
floating (filing of the teeth). This operation is easily per- 
formed. Leave the twitch adjusted and place a speculum in 
the mouth to hold it open. Run a float or tooth rasp along 
the outer edge of the upper and along the inner edge of the 
lower teeth, several times. It is not well to do too much 
filing, just enough to take ofif the sharp edges and thus 
prevent them from cutting the tongue and cheek. If filed too 
much, the rrinding of hay or other hard feed is interfered 
with. 
6. Decayed Teeth (Caries). 
Decayed teeth are not so often found in the horse as in 
the human being. Horses seldom, if ever, sufifer from 
toothache. 
Causes. — It generally results from the biting of some 
hard substance, thus either breaking or cracking the outer 
covering of the pulp, which being exposed soon commences 
to decay. 
Symptoms. — A horse affected with decayed teeth is 
unable to properly masticate his food. While eating he sud- 
denly throws the food out of his mouth, fumbles his tongue 
about a little, then begins again. Should the water be cold, 
he will take a long time to drink, being compelled to stop 
several times in drinking a pailful. When being driven ho 
holds his head to one side, favoring that side in which the 
decayed tooth is situated. His breath smells bad and he faU.^ 
