No (see details on legal position in section 2.) There are many people who have undertaken formal and informal EDT training and built up experience over many years who only wish to remain as competent “tooth raspers” i.e undertake only Category 1 procedures as detailed in section 2. These people are working within the law. It is strongly advised that they should build up a working relationship with the veterinary practices in their area so that when referral for more advanced dental work is necessary or sedation is required for routine rasping there is good cooperation between all parties involved.

To undertake any other procedures in the UK you will have to have passed the BEVA/BVDA equine dentistry exam. However until there is an exemption order to the Veterinary Surgeons Act with regards to equine dentistry then even having passed the BEVA/BVDA exam means only category 1 procedures may be carried out. (See question 7). However the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has indicated that whilst waiting for the relevant legislation to be passed, it will not seek prosecution of BEVA/BVDA qualified EDTs performing category 2 procedures on horses which have overall care by a veterinary surgeon – or similar.�