Why Humans Need to Brush Their Teeth While Animals Don’t
Why Humans Need to Brush Their Teeth While Animals Don’t
Have you ever wondered why humans are compelled to brush their teeth meticulously while many animals, despite having yellow teeth and consuming food, manage just fine without such stringent dental hygiene? The answer lies in the evolution of our diet and the longevity of human life. Unlike most animals that do not live long enough to develop serious dental issues, humans often consume a variety of foods that promote tooth decay.
The Evolution of Our Diet: Sugar and Starches
Our diets have significantly evolved to include large quantities of sugar and starches, which play a crucial role in accelerating tooth decay. Animals typically consume simpler, less-acidic foods. For instance, wild animals rarely consume processed foods like donuts or cookies, except perhaps on rare occasions. This biodiversity in our diets provides a constant threat to our teeth, necessitating regular dental care.
Comparing Human and Animal Diets
When compared to a dog's diet, which consists mainly of dry kibble and occasional treats, humans have a much more varied diet. This variety often includes items such as sugary snacks, acidic drinks like tea and coffee, juice, and alcohol. Were we to adopt a diet similar to that of a dog, our teeth might not require as much care. The unique combination of sugars and acids present in human diets significantly increases the risk of tooth decay.
The Role of Dental Care in Longevity
A dog typically lives for a dozen years and then passes away naturally, whereas humans can live much longer. Over an extended lifespan, the risk of developing dental problems increases. Many veterinarians, including those specializing in dental care, report a high need for fillings, root canals, extractions, and teeth cleanings in pets. This is often due to the presence of periodontal disease, which in dogs is more prevalent than in their wild counterparts.
Despite the occasional use of twigs by some primates for cleaning their teeth, the majority of animals do not require regular dental care because they do not eat refined, sweetened foods. This makes humans even more susceptible to dental issues, especially when we do not maintain proper dental hygiene. Proper brushing and flossing techniques, if adopted correctly, should not only prevent toothache and gum diseases but also ensure that our natural teeth serve us for a full 100 years without any issues.
Conclusion
While animals may not demand daily brushing and flossing due to their simpler diets and shorter lifespans, humans should prioritize these dental hygiene practices to prevent tooth decay and maintain long-term oral health. By adopting the correct brushing and flossing techniques, we can ensure that our teeth remain healthy and strong, even as we age.