Healthy teeth are essential for longevity, and this applies not only to humans but also to pets. If the teeth are not in good condition, it can lead to a loss of appetite, which can be a life-threatening issue for older animals. Therefore, consistent care from a young age is necessary. If a dog has a cavity, treatment often involves general anesthesia, which comes with significant risks and costs, including pre-anesthetic tests and anesthesia fees, burdening the owner. So, how can we prevent cavities in dogs? Let’s learn everything about dog cavities.
How many teeth do dogs have?
Dogs usually start teething at around 5 months old; by 10 months, they have full permanent teeth. They have 20 teeth in the upper jaw and 24 in the lower jaw, totaling 42 teeth. This is significantly more than humans. However, most of these teeth are for show, and the molars do most chewing. Therefore, while caring for all teeth is important, the molars should be given special attention.
How to brush your dog’s teeth?
First, you will need a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dogs. To reduce the aversion to brushing, use toothpaste with safe and tasty flavors like chicken, apple, or peach. Apply the toothpaste to the toothbrush and clean the area between the teeth and gums, making sure to reach the lower teeth and the inside of the molars.
Why dogs do not get cavities?
Sharp tooth shape
Many people are still unconcerned about dog cavities, and some have never heard of them. The first reason dogs rarely get cavities is the shape of their teeth. Unlike human teeth, the pointed shape of dog teeth makes it difficult for cavity-causing bacteria to accumulate.
Dog saliva inhibits the growth of cavity-causing bacteria
Just like humans, dogs can develop cavities. However, the incidence of cavities in dogs is less than 5%, significantly lower than in humans. The reason for this low incidence is the dog’s saliva. Dog saliva has an alkaline pH of 8.5 and lacks amylase, inhibiting bacteria growth and corrosion.
Lack of amylase in dog saliva
Cavity-causing bacteria feed on sugars, producing sticky glucans that adhere to teeth. Human saliva contains amylase, an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into sugars, which then feed the bacteria. However, dog saliva lacks amylase, so sugars are not produced in the mouth, leaving the bacteria without a food source.
How to prevent cavities in dogs
For dogs that mainly eat wet food rather than dry food, it’s essential to be aware of oral troubles. Soft foods can easily get stuck between the teeth. Even with human assistance in brushing, many dogs dislike it, and it’s often difficult to clean their teeth thoroughly. Leftover food stuck in the teeth can cause cavities.
Prevention should start before cavities occur
If your dog has a cavity, the first step is to visit the vet for an examination. What appears to be a cavity to the untrained eye may actually be a stain caused by pigment deposition. Dental treatments for dogs often lead to tooth extraction. Early and proper dental care is crucial as it directly impacts the dog’s health.
Other dental issues to watch for
The most common oral disease in dogs is periodontal disease, which involves inflammation of the tissues surrounding the teeth rather than the teeth themselves. Other conditions include tooth fractures due to trauma, root abscesses, gum overgrowth, and oral tumors. Periodontal disease, also known as gingivitis, is the most common. Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, occurs when plaque and tartar accumulate in the gingival sulcus, causing inflammation from the toxins in the plaque.
The risks of bone treats
Bone treats can be dangerous, especially for very young or elderly dogs, and should not be given without supervision. Bones can cause choking or damage to teeth. Since dog cavity treatments often require anesthesia due to the difficulty of the dog remaining calm during the procedure, paying attention to cavity prevention is important.
What if your dog refuses to brush?
For dogs that dislike brushing, it’s helpful to introduce desensitization training. Wrap a wet wipe around your index finger, dab a little toothpaste, and gently brush it like you’re massaging the gums. Do not use human toothpaste, as it contains fluoride. Use a dog-specific toothpaste that is harmless if swallowed. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush once the dog is accustomed to this.
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