Pitbull dogs are loved by their strength, loyalty, and loving character. Apart from their attractive physique and joyful temperament, they are also strong chewers. That is why the issue of diet, training, and exercise is usually at the center of the Pitbull owner; attention, while the dog’s dental health is neglected to some extent. Nevertheless, Pitbull teeth are the main composition of change of feeding, playing habits and even their lifespan.
What is Pitbull Teeth
As with dogs in general, Pitbulls also have two sets of teeth in their lifetime. The baby teeth of a puppy begin to emerge at about three weeks of age, and in the end, 28 sharp baby teeth are formed. These teeth provide the transition from nursing to eating solid food. Six to seven months of age is the time when deciduous teeth break off and are replaced with a complete set of 42 permanent adult teeth.
Adult teeth are any of the following:
- Incisors (12): These are small front teeth and are used for nibbling and grooming.
- Canines (4): These are long, pointed teeth and are designed for gripping and tearing.
- Premolars (16): These are side teeth that cut and chew the food.
- Molars (10): These are flat teeth at the back of the mouth used for grinding.
Most of the time, Pitbulls are found to have a scissor bite, where the upper incisors rest over the lower ones. It is this arrangement of the teeth that makes their bite both strong and efficient. But as Pitbulls are very enthusiastic and energetic chewers, they thus are more vulnerable to the breaking of their teeth when they come in contact with hard objects such as bones or stones.
Common Dental Problems in Pitbulls
- Periodontal disease is the leading cause of issues, resulting from plaque and tartar buildup. Such a condition can cause gum inflammation, bad breath, tooth decay, and, if allowed to progress, tooth loss.
- Among fractured or broken teeth, Pitbulls are in the lead because they are a power chewer group.
- Teeth pushing out of biting hard objects such as bones, stones, or metal will cause the pulp to be exposed, which is a source of pain and may cause infection.
- On occasion, retained baby teeth develop when deciduous teeth fail to shed as the permanent teeth erupt.
- Malocclusion or misaligned bite is another major concern. It is true that the majority of Pitbulls exhibit the natural scissor bite, but a small number of them may have an underbite or overbite.
- Oral tumors or cysts are infrequently occurring diseases in the mouth. Any abnormal swelling or lumps not going away, should be checked by a vet.
Dental Care for Pitbulls
- Brush the teeth 2-3 times a week using dog-safe toothpaste (never human).
- Provide dental chews for plaque reduction; select VOHC-certified products.
- Use safe chew products such as rubber or nylon and do not use very hard ones.
- Arrange for the vet to do cleanings once a year for deep plaque and tartar removal.
- Give crunchy, high-quality kibble or dental diets to promote oral health.
Benefits of Healthy Pitbull Teeth
- A positive oral health condition is the cause of the baby’s easier teething and less irritation and it also limits the occurrence of destructive chewing.
- The right dental health is a major factor in longevity and living a better life.
Pros of Healthy Pitbull Teeth
- Strong biting capability which can come in handy for feeding, chewing and playing.
- Better oral hygiene, which makes the breath of the dog good.
- Minor veterinary expenses as complex dental surgeries can be avoided.
- Assistance in training as the practice of safe chewing can be used to rechannel the destructive habits.
- General health, thus Pitbull becomes full of energy, joyful, and without any kind of pain.
Cons and Challenges of Pitbull Teeth
- Engaging in hard biting can result in cracked teeth if the item is too hard.
- Puppies by chewing teething might be destroying the things around them with the swollen gums or drooling.
- Not brushing can cause the accumulation of plaque, tartar, and gum disease.
- Going for professional cleanings and taking treatments might be expensive.
- Regular brushing, chews, and vet visits are must-have.
Conclusion
Pitbull teeth are one of the main characteristics of the breed, powerful, sharp and very important for their daily lives. Dental care has always been of great importance for Pitbulls, from teething puppies with razor-like baby teeth to adults with a full set of 42 strong permanent teeth, and in this way they take care of their health and comfort. Healthy teeth not only make it possible for Pitbulls to properly chew and digest their food but also prevent diseases, lower the occurrence of pain, and contribute to the support of a longer and happier life.
To adopt a Pitbull is a decision that requires a lot of dedication to their dental care which includes regular brushing, using safe chew toys, giving dental chews, and visiting the vet for a check-up. Although their teeth are accompanied by problems particularly during teething or when over-chewing, the advantages of good dental health are in fact far greater than the difficulties. If you take care of your Pitbull daily with the required care, his teeth will be strong and healthy, and he will have the opportunity to show off his beautiful smile to the world for a long time.
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