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South American camelids frequently require trimming of teeth as a routine husbandry practice. Overgrown incisors may require trimming to allow for proper prehension of forages. Mature males have prominent upper and lower canine teeth and upper third incisors which curve caudally in the mouth. These teeth are known as the “fighting teeth,” and are formidable weapons. It is recommended for these teeth to be trimmed to increase safety for human handlers and other male camelids, if pastured together. The technique for trimming fighting teeth and incisors is detailed in Chapter 12.

Chemical sedation is recommended for trimming fighting teeth. If there is some mild pain associated with the procedure, sedation with help as an analgesic and the person doing the trimming can do a better job if the animal is still. Sawing fighting teeth off at the gum line is not easily done on a conscious animal, and the teeth tend to break before sawing is complete. Sedation allows a more thorough job, affords the opportunity to apply topical pain relief, and allows the person trimming to make certain that the cut edge is smooth.

The process of trimming incisors with a motorized tooth saw and a speculum made for camelids is often so quick, that this procedure can be done with a light sedation or no sedation, depending on the temperament of the animal and the skill of the handler. In any case, working with the head and mouth before the procedure, understanding balance and using containment rather than restraint is recommended. If you elect to use OB (obstetrical) wire to shorten the incisors, a sedative for the same reasons mentioned above should be used to allow for a more thorough and careful job.