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:
“It is natural not to care about a sister certainly not when she is four years older and grinds her teeth at night.”
—Gertrude Stein (1874–1946)
“Nothing has been purchased more dearly than the little bit of reason and sense of freedom which now constitutes our pride.”
—Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900)