How long after a float before I can work with my horse again?

 

Normally a horse that has had basic dental work done can go back to using a bit and other regular routines right away. This is assuming that the work done was floating the sharp points and edges off his molars and generally balancing his mouth.

 

If there were some extractions necessary - like a wolf tooth removed or a baby tooth cap extracted - then it's a good idea to give the horse a day or even two to be sure his mouth is

healed.

 

Even if there is soft tissue damage like what occurs with these kind of extractions, it will heal surprisingly fast. Your horse's mouth has an inherent ability to heal quickly.

 

A good rule of thumb is to give your horse a day’s break after having his mouth worked on. If there were some major things done in his mouth a little more time might be necessary.

 

Your dentist will be able to advise you on this based on the type of work that was done for your horse. Don't hesitate to ask if they don't volunteer this information.