Dental health significantly impacts overall body health, and it’s no different for pets. Bacteria from a dog’s teeth can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation elsewhere in the body. Therefore, maintaining proper oral hygiene, including dental care, should become routine—even for your dog. After all, prevention is the best medicine.
What You Should Know About a Dog’s Teeth
Dogs have a total of 42 teeth—20 in the upper jaw and 22 in the lower jaw. Their teeth are designed to grip and tear food, reflecting their carnivorous nature. Ideally, a dog’s teeth should form a “scissor bite,” where the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
Starting around the fourth month, puppies undergo a tooth transition, replacing baby teeth with permanent ones, much like humans. During this phase, avoid hard chew toys and tug-of-war games. By seven months of age, the transition is typically complete.
Healthy teeth are essential for food intake and overall health. Proper dental care should begin in puppyhood and include regular veterinary checkups.
Why Is Dental Care Important for Dogs?
As dogs age, many develop dental issues, with tartar being a major concern. Increased bacteria in the mouth can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and even issues with the heart, liver, and kidneys. Slight tooth misalignments can also affect oral hygiene and overall health. Neglecting dental care can reduce a dog’s life expectancy.
3 Tips for Proper Dog Dental Care
1. Dental Care Through Chew Bones and Food
- Chewing Benefits: Provide food that encourages chewing, which naturally cleans teeth through friction. Dry food is particularly effective.
- Chew Treats: Dental chews, like 8in1 Delights PRO Dental, are ideal. Made from rawhide with cleaning minerals, they clean teeth while satisfying your dog’s chewing needs.
- For Sensitive Stomachs: If your dog cannot tolerate regular rawhide treats, try 8in1 Better Bello Chews, made with digestible collagen. These are long-lasting, easy to digest, and help reduce plaque and tartar.
Safety Tips for Bones:
- Avoid cooked poultry or pork bones—they splinter and pose choking hazards.
- Do not feed raw pork bones due to disease risks.
- Avoid hard bones (like beef bones) and antlers, as these can cause microfractures in teeth.
2. Natural Dog Dental Care
- Chewing: Promotes saliva production, which helps dilute minerals and prevent tartar.
- Dental Products: Consider dental drops or water additives. Always consult a vet before using these products to ensure they are necessary and safe.
- Brushing: Use dog-specific toothpaste, never human toothpaste. Early training helps dogs get used to brushing, although it may not be necessary if other dental care methods are followed.
- Chew Toys: These can clean teeth, massage gums, and promote healthy oral hygiene.
3. Regular Veterinary Checkups
Routine checkups are essential for early detection of dental problems. If you notice bad breath, appetite loss, or tooth discoloration, consult your vet promptly. These symptoms could indicate pain and, if left untreated, lead to costly dental surgeries.
Proper dental care ensures a happy, healthy life for your dog. Make dental hygiene a daily habit and consult your vet for personalized advice.
