Equine Dentistry
Bodywork closely following a dental can be incredibly beneficial for your horse - just like bodywork after trimming is an ideal time.
When a horses head is subjected to the pressures of a speculum, it is not uncommon to see increased sensitivity in the TMJ, hyoid, poll, cervical spine and the soft tissues in these areas. They go through a lot during floating and dental work!
That being said, dentistry in horses is so important. Having teeth looked at once or twice a year is great idea BUT - I encourage you to not let just anyone work on your horses teeth. Equine dentistry has come a long way over the years but it is the most delicate and susceptible area in the horses body. The way their teeth come together, affects the entire rest of the body.
Sedation may or may not be required or needed if the dentist is able to perform a hand-float and achieve optimal restults. This depends on the horse, but also the dentist and quite frankly - their horsemanship and effectiveness. Sedation might be the better option for your horse, especially if they are untrusting or having issues further back in the mouth that are more difficult to reach.