The structure of a dog's tooth
A dog's tooth is made up of four parts. The part of the tooth that protrudes above the gums is called the crown. Ideally, the crown should be surrounded by an outer layer of very hard enamel that protects the main component of the dog's tooth, the dentin. The dentin or dental bone consists of bone-like calcified tissue that surrounds the inside of the tooth, the pulp cavity. The pulp contains the nerves and vessels that supply the dog's tooth. Since the dentin is criss-crossed by small, invisible channels that contain the nerves and blood vessels that originate from the pulp, the dentin is sensitive to pain. The lower part of the dog's tooth is called the root and anchors the tooth in the jaw. This is where the pulp cavity and the dentin surrounding it are located, protected by the so-called periodontal membrane. The root and crown are connected to one another by the neck of the tooth, which in a healthy tooth is surrounded by tightly fitting gums.
What damage does plaque do to a dog’s teeth?
It doesn't sound so bad: "My dog has a bit of plaque on his teeth." But plaque is only the precursor to more serious secondary diseases of the dog's teeth. If the plaque on the dog's teeth is not removed by natural chewing or brushing, the body deposits minerals on the plaque. Simple plaque turns into stubborn tartar. This is particularly the case at the neck of the tooth, where the increasing tartar leads to irritation and inflammation of the gums. The gums turn red and gradually detach from the tooth. Gum pockets form on the dog's teeth. This is where the bacteria come in, which can ideally multiply in these pockets and lead to inflammation in the mouth. The gums are pushed further and further back and the tooth root is exposed. The dentin in the area of the neck and root of the tooth has a rough surface, which makes it even easier for tartar to attach itself there. Massive inflammatory processes are possible and lead to the destruction of the periodontal membrane and the breakdown of the surrounding jawbone. The dog tooth loosens until in the end the only option left is to remove the wobbly candidate.
What can you do to save the dog's tooth?
Once inflammatory processes have started on the dog's teeth or gums, it is actually already too late. We therefore recommend fighting them at an early stage. How does this work? It's very simple! Take action against plaque and tartar early on. Your best weapon in this fight is the emmi®-pet ultrasonic toothbrush that can effectively remove plaque and tartar from dogs’ teeth.
Would you like to learn more about how to brush your dog’s teeth? In our blog post “Brush your dog’s teeth properly – with the dog toothbrush” we have put together lots of tips and tricks, from the right technique to getting your dog used to the dog toothbrush: Brushing your dog's teeth properly - with the dog toothbrush
You can also get even more background information on dental hygiene in dogs if you sign up for our Register for our newsletter . You can sign up here and always be up-to-date when it comes to your pet's dental care.
 |
|
 |
