Dental disease is one of the most common diseases reported by veterinarians, highlighting the need for regular dog dental care. To better understand how to care for your dog’s teeth, it is important to understand the makeup of dog teeth. We have put together some interesting facts that you probably didn’t know about dog teeth to help you get on your way!
1. Dogs go through two sets of teeth in their lifetime
Puppy teeth, commonly known as deciduous teeth, are eventually replaced with adult teeth. They lose their teeth in a way similar to children, they become loose and eventually fall out.
2. Adult dogs have 42 teeth, compared to 32 of humans
Puppies have about 28 deciduous teeth that eventually shed to make way for 42 permanent adult dog teeth.
3. Dogs use their teeth differently to humans
While the makeup and structure of dog teeth is similar to human teeth, the size and shape are extremely different. Their most prominent teeth are long and pointy canines, while the large carnassial teeth at the back are designed to shear against one another and assist with slicing.
4. The roots of a dog’s teeth are extremely long
The visible crown is usually only about a quarter of the dog’s tooth length.
5. Cavities are extremely rare
Bacteria in a dog’s mouth are very different from the bacteria in a human’s mouth. Dog’s don't usually consume as much sugar as humans, meaning the species of bacteria that causes cavities is rare.
6. Dogs should have their teeth professionally cleaned
Much like humans, dogs can have their teeth scaled and polished by veterinarians. While this usually requires going under anaesthetic, the dental health benefits are great.
7. Dogs have four different types of teeth
Dog's teeth are broken into 4 categories: incisors, canines, premolars and molars.
8. 80% of dogs show signs of canine periodontal disease after the age of 3
This highlights the importance of routine dental care to look after those pearly whites!
Oral hygiene is just as important for dogs as it is for humans, and practising good dental care at home will help your dog live a happier, healthier and longer life. Now that you know a bit more about your dog’s teeth, it is the perfect time to get on top of that dental care that you have been putting off. You can read one of our many articles on dental care here, and shop dental products here.
