Horse getting bit between teeth?

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Popos

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Sorry for badly worded title from a novice, but wondering what is causing this.

My boys gets a bit silly at time on the way home from a hack and today when a friend was riding him he was really faffing with the bit. Seeming to almost hold it between his back teeth, or open his mouth wide, basically what I assume is to be avoiding the bit?

I don't notice this so much when I ride him though. He will sometimes throw his head down on the way home to release some contact when I'm on board but no so much faffing with the bit.

He is in a Dutch gag as told to ride him in by previous owner and instructor. I am generally very light with my hands unless needed.

I'm wondering if this behaviour is because my friend is pulling on his mouth a bit, or is it him 'misbehaving'
in his excitement of being on his way home?!

Would be grateful to hear any views and/or explanation about this! Thank you.
 
Also he has had his teeth done recently (and back and shoes, just in case that could have been a contributing factor!).
 
Thanks it's not really between the teeth, more that he's faffing with it in an attempt to. You can't actually see it between the teeth. I'm explaining myself very badly!! I should video it.
 
If it is touching the teeth then it is fitted too low.
When pressure is applied to a horses tongue it is unable to swallow as the tongue cannot move, a bit with a roller centre piece will help the horse to move his tongue and swallow. This could just be one of a few problems but a roller may be a realistic thing to try.
 
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