04/01/2025
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New Research Highlights Possible Link Between Dental Disease and Gastric Ulcers in Horses
Poor dental health may impact more than just a horseโs ability to chewโit could influence their entire digestive health. Researchers recently explored a possible connection between dental disease and equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS), a common and painful condition in horses.
The hypothesis? Dental issues reduce chewing efficiency, decreasing saliva production. Since saliva helps buffer stomach acid, less chewing may lead to more acidic gastric juicesโcontributing to ulcer formation. Horses with dental pain may also avoid long-stem forage, eliminating the protective โmatโ that normally shields the stomach lining from acid splash.
In a study of 54 horses showing signs of gastric discomfort (e.g., weight loss, poor appetite, colic, girthiness), gastroscopy revealed:
โข 56% had moderate-to-severe squamous ulcers
โข 17% had significant glandular ulcers
โข 13% had both types of ulcers
โข 48% had moderate-to-severe dental abnormalities
While a direct link wasnโt confirmed, researchers emphasize that oral and gastric exams should be standard in horses with chronic digestive symptoms.
โDaily digestive buffers and regular dental care are key tools in supporting gastric healthโespecially in horses with dental challenges or those fed primarily processed forages,โ said Catherine Whitehouse, M.S., of Kentucky Equine Research.
Takeaway: Routine dental exams are more than just maintenanceโthey may be essential for preventing digestive disorders that impact equine health, behavior, and performance.
