Please open your mouth and say "Ah!" The teeth are your four-legged friend's most important tool. A dog's teeth differ from a human's in many ways. So, if you want to provide optimal care, it's worth taking a closer look. In this article, we'll explain what a dog's teeth look like and what you should pay particular attention to when caring for them.
The different types of dog teeth
In principle, we distinguish between two types of dog bite: the scissor bite and the pincer bite. The scissor bite is considered ideal for hunting dogs. Here, the upper incisors extend slightly beyond the lower jaw. The upper and lower molars are thus offset from each other, cutting food between them like scissors.
When the molars of the upper and lower jaws meet, this is called a pincer bite. This is especially important in older dogs, as this type of dog bite is more likely to show signs of wear over time.
Various breeds are also known for their underbite: the lower jaw is longer than the upper jaw, which is typical in Boxers and Bulldogs, for example. A rare overbite can also impair mouth function and requires special attention.
The teeth in the dog's mouth
An adult dog's dentition consists of 42 teeth: three incisors, one canine, four front molars, and two back molars in the upper jaw; the same arrangement in the lower jaw plus one additional molar. Incisors are used for nibbling and gnawing, canines hook into prey, and the molars are responsible for grinding.
Dental care for dogs
Every tooth serves a purpose and therefore requires care. Food debris and foreign objects can become trapped between the molars, especially. Chew toys and dental treats can support this, but are no substitute for regular brushing. Only a toothbrush specifically designed for dogs can reliably prevent plaque, gingivitis, and other diseases.
You can find more tips on caring for your dog’s teeth here.
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