Dr. Molly Rice
DVM, Dipl.AVDC (Equine)
Dr. Molly Rice is a Board-Certified Equine Veterinary Dentist and a leading expert in equine dentistry, known for her dedication to advancing the field and educating the next generation of veterinarians.
A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine in 2003, Dr. Rice’s passion for equine dentistry emerged during her internship at Wisconsin Equine Clinic and Hospital, where she also gained skills in reproduction and general equine care.
Following her internship, Dr. Molly Rice spent six years in an equine ambulatory practice in the Madison area, where she deepened her knowledge and skills in equine dental care.
Her dedication to dentistry led her to join Dr. Travis Henry’s team at Midwest Veterinary Dental Services in 2009, where she specialized in equine dental practice.
Recognizing the importance of advancing her expertise, Dr. Molly Rice pursued board certification through the American Veterinary Dental College, achieving diplomate status in 2018.
Dr. Rice’s clinical practice focuses on comprehensive equine dental care, including minimally invasive surgical extractions and advanced imaging techniques.
Beyond her clinical work, the University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate is passionate about education and frequently shares her expertise with veterinarians, veterinary students, and horse owners through workshops, continuing education events, and conferences.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Molly Rice enjoys an active lifestyle with her husband, Dave.
Together, they share their home in Wisconsin with their two Springer Spaniels and two cats. In her free time, she loves exploring the outdoors through camping, hiking, trail riding, and fishing.
Dr. Molly Rice’s career showcases her deep commitment to advancing equine dentistry, fostering education, and delivering exceptional care. With over two decades of experience,
Dr. Rice has established herself as a trusted expert and a passionate advocate for raising the standard of equine dental health.
Recently, she shared her insights into the field, along with a memorable tale that captures the unique challenges of veterinary practice.
Three Things Every Veterinarian Should Know About Equine Dentistry
When asked to share the most critical lessons for veterinarians, Dr. Molly Rice highlighted three key points that every equine practitioner should understand:
Know the Difference Between a Pulp Horn and an Infundibulum
Dr. Rice emphasized the importance of understanding basic dental anatomy. “I teach a lot of basic labs, and even though vets say they know the difference, they often send me cases of open pulp horns that turn out to be infundibular caries or feed tracking,” she explained.
This foundational knowledge is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Master Dental Radiographs
Radiographs are an indispensable diagnostic tool in equine dentistry. Dr. Molly Rice urged veterinarians to prioritize learning this skill, as it enables them to identify and address oral problems more effectively.
“Radiographs are critical when oral exams reveal issues,” she said, underscoring their role in comprehensive dental care.
Don’t Fear Adjusting the Occlusal Surface
While some veterinarians are hesitant to adjust the occlusal surface of teeth, Dr. Molly Rice explained that it’s sometimes necessary. “In vet school, we were taught to only take off sharp points, but that’s not always enough,” she said.
Addressing malocclusions or dominant teeth can prevent periodontal disease and improve a horse’s comfort and health.
An Unforgettable Night on an Amish Farm
One of Dr. Rice’s most memorable experiences in practice happened during her time in general equine care. She recounted an adventurous night involving a sick Percheron foal, an overly protective dog, and an Amish farm without electricity.
Called out late at night for a plasma transfusion, Dr. Molly Rice found herself alone in a barn with a headlamp and a fiercely growling dog just outside the stall.
With no farmer in sight and no backup, she managed to sedate the foal, insert a catheter, and administer the plasma all on her own. “The mare just stood there calmly, like, ‘Okay, do your thing,’” she said.
After successfully completing the procedure, she faced her next challenge: escaping the barn without being bitten by the dog. With no weapons or alternative exits, she ultimately resorted to hopping through goat pens, waking every baby goat in the process.
“I did make it out without getting bitten,” she laughed, “but it was an adventure I’ll never forget.”
Why Dr. Molly Rice Loves Equine Dentistry
For Dr. Rice, equine dentistry represents a perfect blend of science, problem-solving, and care. Her passion lies in not only helping horses but also educating veterinarians and horse owners about the importance of dental health. “
It’s a privilege to make a real difference in the lives of these animals,” she said. Her commitment to continual learning and innovation keeps her inspired as the field evolves.
Dr. Molly Rice’s dedication to advancing equine dentistry and mentoring future practitioners has left a lasting impact on the veterinary community.
Whether through her clinical practice, educational outreach, or passion for teaching, Dr. Molly Rice exemplifies excellence and compassion in her field.
Her ability to connect with both horses and their caregivers, coupled with her enthusiasm for sharing knowledge, ensures her influence will inspire the next generation of veterinarians to strive for the highest standards of care.