The producers of this video use very strong visuals, hundreds of horse skulls from the Academy of Equine Dentistry, and a full equine skeleton. Also included are simplistic drawings, animated to show the movement of the jaw and proper and improper incisor angles.
The purpose of the video, according to Spencer LaFlure, is "to help in pre-purchase exams and to distinguish between biomechanical problems and training issues." I don't know that the production fulfilled its primary purpose, yet it truly educates the viewer as to the work that needs to be done in the mouth and gives the viewers clues about whether their current dentist is doing an efficient job.
"Balance in the jaw is achieved by balance between the incisors, the molars and the TMJ; further, it is that balance that contributes to the balance that we work so hard to achieve in our horse's feet, mind and body." Much time and effort is put forth to emphasize the importance in lower jaw symmetry. The production briefly describes possible lameness and biomechanics problems of many disciplines that can relate to this lack of symmetry in the lower jaw.
I finished watching the video with the feeling that it is truly important to have an experienced dentist with the knowledge of biomechanics, anatomy and physiology.
I give this video a thumbs up, a must see for every 4-H club, Pony Club and adult group out there. It is a strongly educational tool for enlightened horsemen and women.
Spencer LaFlure, Equine Dentist
The Tooth Fairy Inc., www.valeofilms.com
Runs 60 minutes, $29.00 USD
Reviewed by Karen Tappenden