The last molar erupts into position at age three. These bumps are the developing roots of the permanent third and fourth premolars. The bone of the mandible is remodeling and expanding to allow for the tooth elongation. The bone over these roots is quite thin and the roots can be damaged easily. Check two-year old horses every six months or more frequently during eruption to remove caps.
Loose caps cause pain with mastication.
Caps can be retained and may need to be removed to prevent uneven eruption of permanent teeth. Examination and floating every six months after premolar cap removal will identify abnormal incisor or molar wear abnormal occlusion and maintain a pain-free mouth. See the sheet listing abnormalities. Performance horses may need floating every six months, depending upon how sensitive they are to oral problems. Some horses become quite reactive to just one sharp point after they have been pain free for several months.