November 18, 2022
Dogs have long been considered man’s best friend. But is it really true that their mouths are cleaner than ours? Some people believe this to be the case, while others are not so sure. Let’s take a closer look at the science behind this claim:
It is an often-repeated myth that dogs’ mouths are much cleaner than ours. Indeed, many people use this as reasoning when their pet pooch decides to give them a quick lick across the nose. The truth of the matter is that dogs and humans share the same number of bacteria. What actually causes the difference in hygiene between us and our canine companions is primarily due to behavioral differences. Dogs can’t brush their own teeth and often eat things they shouldn’t. Thus, we can rest assured that although we should all maintain good oral hygiene for our own health and well-being, no extra precautions need to be taken when it comes to our beloved canine pals and the bacteria in their mouths. However, if you’re concerned about your dog’s mouth health there are steps you can take to keep their mouth clean.
Ensuring your dog’s mouth is clean and healthy is an important part of their overall well-being. To accomplish this, it is a good idea to brush your dog’s teeth regularly using canine toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush. You can also provide bones or special dental chew products as treats to help strengthen their gums and scrape away excess plaque and tartar buildup, but be mindful that hard chew toys might chip or hurt the enamel of their teeth if they are chewed too frequently or aggressively. Additionally, you can bring your pup in for professional cleanings with your veterinarian at least once a year to remove any tartar or built-up plaque and help spot any signs of decay, cavities, or gum disease. Taking these few steps can go a long way in helping keep your pup’s mouth healthy!
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential in order to avoid bad breath, gum disease, and cavities. Some basic steps to keep your mouth clean include brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, and avoiding sugary snacks and drinks. Additionally, one should get a professional dental cleaning every six months to properly clean their teeth and gums. Eating healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables can also help to protect our teeth from bacteria. Taking all of these steps will create a healthier mouth environment that will allow us to show off a beautiful smile for years to come.
Although it may be hard to believe, studies show that we have the same number of bacteria in our mouths as dogs. But don’t worry – there are plenty of things you can do to keep your own mouth healthy and free of harmful bacteria. Be sure to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, eat a balanced diet, and visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning. If it’s been a while since your last dental appointment or you have any questions about how to best care for your teeth, give us a call today at Sinquefield Family Dentistry.
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