This episode features Spencer LaFlure, founder of the Center for Neuromuscular-Based Horse Dentistry, discussing a revolutionary approach to equine dental care that goes far beyond traditional tooth floating. The conversation explores how proper jaw alignment through neuromuscular dentistry connects to a horse's entire body system, affecting everything from performance to behavior.
LaFlure explains how traditional dentistry focuses on removing sharp points and creating smooth surfaces, but this approach actually disrupts the horse's natural biomechanics. His method instead emphasizes restoring anatomically correct dental inclination and enabling complete natural jaw movement, which activates what he calls the "primo-vascular system" - an energy grid that connects the jaw to the horse's neuromuscular and proprioceptive systems.
The discussion covers some controversial aspects of this approach, including why some veterinarians are not open to it, the problems with power tools, excessive sedation, unnatural head positioning, and why adjusting incisors (front teeth) is crucial despite traditional dentistry avoiding this practice. Throughout the discussion, LaFlure emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and education in improving equine dental practices, ultimately advocating for a more balanced and informed approach to equine health.
Takeaways
Neuromuscular-based dentistry offers a revolutionary approach to equine dental care.
Jaw alignment significantly impacts a horse's overall performance and well-being.
Many equine professionals chase symptoms rather than addressing root causes.
Resistance to change in equine dentistry can hinder progress and improvement.
Sedation practices in equine dentistry are often misunderstood and misapplied.
Education and continuous learning are vital for advancing equine dental practices.
Find A Practitioner and Learn about The Center for Neuromuscular Based Horse Dentistry at neuromuscularhorsedentistry.com
Don't Forget To Follow, Subscribe, Rate The Show, and Follow Our Socials! tamaraleebarrett.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Neuromuscular Dentistry
07:25 Understanding Traditional vs. Neuromuscular Dentistry
13:10 The Role of Sedation in Dentistry...Is It Really A Necessity?
18:36 The Connection Between Nervous System and Performance
23:26 Conclusion and Future Directions
38:43 The Importance of Dialogue with Horses
43:38 Evolution of Horse Dentistry Education
48:29 The Neuromuscular Approach to Horse Dentistry
56:14 The Journey of Learning and Sharing Knowledge
59:14 Embracing Change and Continuous Improvement
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy And Charlamagne Tha God!
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.