The Teeth and The Bit
When fitting a bit to a horse, along with a bridle, the normally metal bar of the bit lies in the interdental space between the incisors (or canines, where present) and premolars. If the bridle is adjusted so that the bit rests too low, or too high, it may push against the teeth and cause discomfort.
Sometimes, a "bit seat" is filed in the first premolar, where the surface is rounded so that the flesh of the cheek is not pushed into the sharp edge of the tooth, making riding more comfortable for the horse, although the practice is controversial.
Read more about this topic: Horse Teeth
Famous quotes containing the words teeth and/or bit:
“These hunt, as they have done
But with claws and teeth grown perfect,
More deadly than they can believe.”
—James Dickey (b. 1923)
“He was made bit by bit, piece by piece. The undying monster. The triumphant climax of Frankenstein’s genius.”
—Edward T. Lowe, and Erle C. Kenton. Dr. Edelman (Onslow Stevens)