Many people have heard a dog's mouth is cleaner than a human's, but how true is that saying? Today, our Cumming vets talk about the cleanliness of your dog's mouth and how to keep their teeth clean.
The Importance of Dog Dental Care
A dog's mouth is very different from a human's mouth. While there is some overlap in the types of bacteria between species, a dog's mouth contains several dental bacteria that you will not find in yours. A dog's mouth contains approximately 600 different species of germs, as opposed to the 615 and counting varieties in the human mouth. So, in brief, the answer is no.
However, there are similarities. Porphyromonas, for example, is a bacterial family that causes periodontal disease in humans and dogs. Billions of germs slowly accumulate on the teeth's surface, resulting in bad breath, gum recession, tooth root abscesses, and bone damage around the roots.
Early periodontal disease stages are treatable in dogs and humans with at-home dental care. And dogs, like humans, require professional dental cleanings regularly.
Do infections pass through saliva?
The chances of germs being transmitted to humans via a dog's saliva are extremely low. However, it still has a chance of occurring. A dog’s saliva can spread bacterial and viral infections. They can be transmitted if a dog bites you or saliva enters your nose, mouth, or eyes.
Bacterial Infections
A dog bite can transmit the bacteria Capnocytophaga canimorsus into the bite wound, causing a serious bacterial infection in humans. Pasteurella canis is the most common bacteria found in a dog's mouth and the most common organism found in people who have been bitten by a dog. The severity of a dog bite is determined by the wound's location and whether the person is immunocompromised or otherwise vulnerable.
If you have been bitten by a dog, thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water for 15 minutes before seeking medical attention.
Rabies
The most serious infection that dogs can spread through their saliva is rabies. It is a virus that can be transmitted when a dog bites someone. The virus infects the nervous system, resulting in a variety of symptoms. Initially, dogs may show signs of anxiety and nervousness. In the late stages, dogs become aggressive, uncoordinated, and disoriented.
If you see a dog (or wild animal) with these symptoms, call your local animal control or police department and stay away. The outcome is usually fatal when a dog, person, or wild animal develops rabies symptoms.
Should I be worried if my dog licks me?
Because your skin absorbs saliva poorly, licking by a dog poses little risk of infection (as long as they do not lick a wound). If you are allergic to dog saliva, you may experience hives, a rash, and/or extreme itching.
How to Clean a Dog's Mouth
Proper dog dental care and learning how to clean your dog's teeth are essential in keeping your dog's mouth as clean and safe as possible. One of the easiest ways to do this is to bring your dog in for a dental appointment. We recommend it at least once a year or more if your dog suffers from some dental disease (like periodontitis).
When you bring your dog to Animal Medical Center of Cumming for a dental checkup, our vets will perform a full oral examination for your pooch and check for signs of dental issues, such as:
- Extra teeth or retained baby teeth
- Bleeding around the mouth
- Swelling or pain in or around the mouth
- Plaque or tartar buildup on teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Loose or broken teeth
- Bad breath
If left untreated, oral health issues can become severe, causing your dog significant pain and discomfort. If you notice signs of periodontal disease in your pet, such as decreased appetite (which can indicate tooth pain), abnormal chewing, drooling, dropping food from the mouth, bad breath, or other symptoms, call your veterinarian immediately to schedule a dental appointment.
At Animal Medical Center of Cumming, we thoroughly clean and polish your dog's teeth, both above and below the gum line. We probe and X-ray the teeth, then use a fluoride treatment before applying a dental sealant to help prevent future decay and damage. If your dog has advanced periodontal disease, we will create a treatment plan to help restore your dog's mouth to a pain-free and healthy state.
Should I brush my dog's teeth?
As a pet owner, you play an essential role in helping your dog fight dental disease. Here are a few simple ways you can help keep your dog's mouth healthy:- Brush your dog's teeth daily with a fingerbrush or a child's toothbrush if you can't find a fingerbrush to remove any plaque or debris. It's as straightforward as brushing your teeth. If your dog resists having its teeth cleaned, try some doggie toothpaste in flavors your dog will love. These dog-friendly toothpaste can transform a chore into a treat.
- Use a plaque prevention product (your vet can recommend some), which you can apply to your pet’s teeth and gums. These products act as a barrier to prevent plaque buildup.
- Offer your pup treats, such as dental chews or food designed to help prevent plaque buildup and tartar.
Dental care is an important part of your pet's overall health. Be sure to book your pet's annual dental appointment today. Your dog will thank you.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.