We’ve all heard the saying “My dog has a cleaner mouth than me.” But is it true? Is it really possible for a dog’s mouth to be cleaner than a human’s? Let’s take a closer look at this age-old question.
Is It True That Dogs’ Mouths Are Cleaner Than Humans?
The answer, unfortunately, isn’t so simple. While dogs do have fewer bacteria in their mouths than humans, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re any cleaner overall. For example, research has shown that dogs often carry higher amounts of oral microbes associated with periodontal disease than humans do.
So while dogs may have fewer types of bacteria in their mouths, they don’t necessarily have fewer pathogens—or disease-causing agents—than humans do.
That being said, there are some key differences between the bacteria found in canine and human mouths. For instance, dogs have more anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that don’t need oxygen to survive) in their mouths than humans do; this type of bacteria can cause bad breath and gum disease if left unchecked.
On the other hand, humans tend to have more aerobic bacteria (bacteria that require oxygen to survive) in their mouths; these types of bacteria are generally less harmful and can even help keep our teeth healthy.
So while it may be tempting to think that our four-legged friends have healthier mouths than we do, the truth is that both species benefit from good dental hygiene practices.
Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly and making sure they get regular checkups from the vet can help ensure that your pup has a clean and healthy mouth for years to come!
Conclusion
At the end of the day, it’s true that dogs typically have fewer types of bacteria in their mouths than humans – but don’t let this fool you into thinking they’re any cleaner overall!
Regular dental care is important for both people and pets alike – so make sure you brush your pup’s teeth often and schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian for optimal oral health!
