What term is used to describe when the lower jaw is shorter than the upper jaw?

The term used to describe when the lower jaw is shorter than the upper jaw is "parrot mouth." This condition typically results in an abnormal alignment of the teeth and can lead to difficulties in eating, as the horse may struggle to properly chew its food. It is characterized by the upper incisors protruding significantly over the lower incisors, creating a beak-like appearance, much like that of a parrot, hence the name.

Other terms present in the options refer to different dental or jaw conditions. Overbite generally refers to a situation where the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth, which may not necessarily indicate a shorter lower jaw. Underjaw is not a standard term commonly used in equine dentistry, and wolf teeth refer to a specific type of tooth that can develop in horses and is unrelated to the jaw length comparison. Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment of dental issues in horses.