NZon January 30, 2023
Dental disease is incredibly common in dogs, affecting around 80% of dogs over the age of three. With more pet owners now brushing their dog’s teeth at home, it is clear that dental health is a recognised part of overall wellbeing.
But can diet play a role in supporting healthy teeth, and potentially reduce reliance on brushing alone?
Why canine dental health is a growing concern
To understand how diet can influence dental health, we first need to consider the natural function of a dog’s teeth.
A dog’s teeth are essentially a toolbox, designed to capture, tear, and consume meat. This biological design points us toward a diet that reflects how dogs are naturally meant to eat.
Does kibble really help clean a dog's teeth?
A common belief is that kibble helps clean a dog’s teeth due to its hard texture and abrasive chewing action.
However, when we look at the ancestral diets of dogs, where dental disease was not considered a widespread issue, a different picture emerges. Diets high in processed carbohydrates may actually contribute to plaque and tartar build-up, in a similar way that sugar can impact human dental health.
How diet can influence plaque and tartar build-up
Carbohydrates can support the development of plaque on the teeth, which can then lead to tartar formation and dental disease.
In contrast, meat-based diets contain naturally occurring enzymes that may help limit tartar accumulation. This can contribute to improved dental health and potentially reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Key takeaways:
- Dental disease affects a large number of dogs over the age of three.
- A dog's teeth are naturally designed to tear and consume meat.
- Processed carbohydrates may contribute to plaque and tartar build-up.
- Meat-based diets contain naturally occurring enzymes that may help limit tartar accumulation.
- Nutrition can play an important role in supporting healthy teeth and gums.
A more natural approach to dental nutrition
Given the biological design of canine teeth, a diet that aligns more closely with nature may offer benefits.
A high-meat, low carbohydrate, grain free approach reflects how dogs are naturally adapted to eat, and may help support both dental and overall health.
Supporting healthy teeth through everyday nutrition
While more research is still emerging in this area, the concept of a "dental diet" built around natural feeding principles is gaining attention.
Dogs require healthy teeth and gums to eat nutritious food, and in turn, a nutritious diet helps support oral health.
By focusing on biologically appropriate nutrition, pet owners can take a more holistic approach to supporting their dog's dental wellbeing.
Healthy Teeth Start With Everyday Nutrition
While diet is only one part of dental care, feeding a biologically appropriate, meat-rich diet may help support healthy teeth and gums.
Combined with regular dental care and veterinary checkups, nutrition can form part of a more holistic approach to supporting your dog's long-term oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can diet affect my dog's dental health?
Diet can influence plaque and tartar build-up, which may impact overall dental health. A biologically appropriate diet that is high in meat and lower in carbohydrates may help support healthy teeth and gums.
Does kibble clean a dog's teeth?
A common belief is that kibble helps clean teeth through chewing action. However, diets high in processed carbohydrates may contribute to plaque and tartar build-up.
What foods help support healthy teeth in dogs?
Meat-based diets contain naturally occurring enzymes that may help limit tartar accumulation while providing nutrition that aligns with how dogs are naturally adapted to eat.
Can nutrition replace brushing my dog's teeth?
No. Nutrition can help support oral health, but brushing, regular dental care, and veterinary checkups remain important parts of maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Why is dental disease so common in dogs?
Dental disease affects a large number of dogs over the age of three. Factors such as plaque accumulation, tartar build-up, and overall oral hygiene can all contribute to dental issues over time.
