Bearded Dragon Teeth: How To Care For Them? (Everything You Need To Know)
Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that have become increasingly popular as pets. These lizards are unique in many ways, including their dental structure.
Bearded dragons have rows of small, sharp teeth that are used for biting and tearing food. However, as with any animal, taking care of their teeth is important to ensure they stay healthy and happy.
So, are you supposed to clean your bearded dragon’s teeth? The answer is yes!
While bearded dragons’ teeth do fall out naturally and grow back, they can still experience dental issues such as cavities, infections, and gum disease. Regular dental care can help prevent these issues and keep your bearded dragon’s mouth healthy.
But how do you clean a bearded dragon’s teeth? What should you look out for when it comes to dental problems? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about bearded dragon teeth and dental care to ensure your pet stays healthy and happy.
Bearded Dragon Teeth Anatomy
How many teeth does a bearded dragon have?
A bearded dragon has many teeth located in both the upper and lower jaw. The number of teeth a bearded dragon has varies depending on the type of teeth. Bearded dragons have two types of teeth: acrodont and pleurodont teeth.
Acrodont teeth are located on the top of the jawbone while pleurodont teeth are located on the inside of the jawbone.
The acrodont teeth are used for biting and holding while the pleurodont teeth are used for grinding food. an adult bearded dragon may have anywhere from 17 to 20 teeth along each side of the upper and lower jawlines.
This can mean the adult animal with a healthy mouth and teeth may have as many as 80 teeth in their mouth at any given time!
The upper and lower jawlines of an adult bearded dragon can have a total of 17 to 20 teeth on each side, potentially resulting in 60- 80 teeth present in their mouth at a given point.
They can only regrow new teeth to compensate for the loss of old ones. Hence, proper dental care should be given to the reptile regularly to maintain good oral hygiene.
Bearded dragons are known for their unique teeth structure. They have a total of 24 teeth, which are divided into different types based on their shape and function. The teeth are located in the upper and lower jaws and are used for various purposes such as biting, chewing, and tearing food.
What is acrodont dentition?
Acrodont dentition is a unique dental structure found in some reptilian animals such as bearded dragons. The term acrodont means “tooth on top” which indicates that the teeth are located on the surface of the jawbone instead of being set inside sockets.
In this type of dentition, the teeth are firmly attached to the bone instead of being rooted, which makes it difficult for the animals to replace their teeth. Bearded dragons have acrodont dentition that consists of teeth that are simple, cone-shaped, and appear to be attached to the surface of the bone.
This type of dentition serves different purposes, including catching prey and grinding food. Overall, acrodont dentition is a unique dental structure that has evolved in some reptilian animals to help them survive and thrive in their environment.
Cleaning Bearded Dragon Teeth
Why Clean a Bearded Dragon Teeth?
Bearded dragons, like any other animal, can develop dental problems. It is important to clean their teeth regularly to prevent these issues from occurring. Regular cleaning of bearded dragon teeth can help prevent periodontal disease, which can cause pain, tooth loss, and infection.
How to Clean Bearded Dragon Teeth
First, you will need a soft-bristled toothbrush or a Q-tip. You can use a small amount of water or mild reptile-safe toothpaste to clean their teeth. Next, gently pry open the side of your bearded dragon’s mouth with the Q-Tip or toothbrush and proceed to gently scrub its teeth and gums. Be sure to clean the front and back of each tooth, as well as the gums.
If your bearded dragon is not used to having their teeth cleaned, it may take some time for them to get comfortable with the process.
Start by gently touching their mouth and teeth with your finger, and gradually work your way up to using a toothbrush or Q-tip. Be patient and gentle, and try to make the experience as positive as possible for your bearded dragon.
Frequency of Cleaning Bearded Dragon Teeth
It is recommended to clean your bearded dragon’s teeth twice per week in the first stage of periodontal disease and every two days in the second stage.
However, if your bearded dragon is prone to dental problems or has already developed periodontal disease, you may need to clean its teeth more frequently. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best cleaning schedule for your bearded dragon.
Cleaning your bearded dragon’s teeth is an important part of their overall health care. By following these simple steps and cleaning their teeth regularly, you can help prevent dental problems and ensure that your bearded dragon stays healthy and happy.
Signs of Dental Issues in Bearded Dragons
Symptoms of Dental Issues
Bearded dragons are susceptible to dental issues, just like any other animal. It’s important to monitor their dental health regularly to prevent any serious issues from developing. Here are some common symptoms of dental problems in bearded dragons:
- Difficulty eating or loss of appetite
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Unusual lumps or bumps in the mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your bearded dragon to a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles.
Common Dental Problems in Bearded Dragons
There are several dental problems that bearded dragons may experience throughout their lifetime. Here are some of the most common dental issues:
| Dental Problem | Description |
| Gingivitis | Swollen, red, and bleeding gums caused by a bacterial infection |
| Periodontal disease | Inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth, which can lead to tooth loss |
| Mouth rot | A bacterial infection that causes inflammation and pus in the mouth, often caused by poor husbandry practices |
| Malocclusion | A misalignment of the teeth, which can lead to difficulty eating and other dental problems |
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, as well as proper husbandry practices, can help prevent these dental issues from occurring in your bearded dragon.
How does a bearded dragon’s diet affect its dentition?
A bearded dragon’s diet can have a significant impact on its dental health and dentition. These reptiles require a well-balanced diet that includes calcium, phosphorus, and other essential nutrients to maintain healthy teeth and bones.
Deficiencies or imbalances in these nutrients can lead to dental problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or periodontal disease.
Additionally, consuming hard or abrasive food items, such as insects or plants with tough fibers, can wear down the teeth and lead to dental fractures.
Poor dental health can also put bearded dragons at risk for other health issues, such as infections or abscesses. Therefore, it is crucial to provide a proper diet and monitor for any signs of dental disease in bearded dragons.
How to Tell If Your Bearded Dragon Is Losing Teeth?
As a bearded dragon owner, it is important to observe any signs of tooth loss in your pet. One way to tell if your bearded dragon is losing teeth is by checking their gums.
The gums may appear swollen or inflamed around the affected tooth. Additionally, your bearded dragon may stop eating or struggle to chew their food. You may also notice small holes or gaps in their mouth where teeth are missing.
Be sure to inspect your bearded dragon’s mouth regularly and seek veterinary care if you suspect tooth loss. It is important to maintain good dental health in bearded dragons to prevent further tooth loss and maintain overall health.
Do Bearded Dragons Teeth Grow Back?
Bearded dragons have a unique dentition compared to other lizards, with several rows of small teeth lining their upper and lower jaws. Like most reptiles, bearded dragons lose their teeth throughout their lives. However, unlike humans and some other animals, their teeth grow back continuously.
If a bearded dragon loses one or several of their front teeth, it will soon grow back to replace them. This is important because these front teeth are used for biting and catching prey, and can also be used to defend themselves from attackers. It is important to note, however, that as bearded dragons age, their teeth may not grow back as quickly or strongly as before.
Additionally, poor diet or disease can also negatively impact their dental health and growth. Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper dental hygiene can help ensure a bearded dragon has strong and healthy teeth.
What Can Effect The Health Of Bearded Dragons Teeth?
The oral health of bearded dragons is important for their overall well-being. Several factors can potentially impact the health of their teeth.
One major issue that can arise is the buildup of plaque on their teeth and gums. This plaque can eventually cause infections in the gums, which may result in tooth loss if left untreated.
Additionally, a lack of vitamins and minerals in their diet can lead to tooth and gum problems. Calcium and Vitamin D3 and A are especially important for maintaining healthy teeth and bones.
Accidents or injuries to their mouth can also lead to tooth damage or loss. In conclusion, regular oral care and a balanced diet are crucial for maintaining the oral health of bearded dragons.
What To Do If Your Bearded Dragon Loses Their Teeth?
If your bearded dragon loses their teeth, there are a few things that you can do to help them. Firstly, it’s important to understand that it’s normal for bearded dragons to lose their teeth, as they constantly grow new ones to replace them.
However, if they are losing teeth more frequently than usual, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue, such as a poor diet or vitamin deficiency. In this case, it’s best to take them to a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles for a check-up.
If your bearded dragon is otherwise healthy, you can help them by providing them with a soft diet, such as cooked vegetables or pureed liver or eggs. You could also consider giving them a calcium supplement, which will help to strengthen their teeth and bones.
Finally, it’s important to make sure that their habitat is clean and comfortable, as stress can also contribute to tooth loss in bearded dragons.
Bearded Dragon Teeth FAQs
Q: Do bearded dragons have teeth?
A: Yes, bearded dragons do have teeth. They may seem tiny and insignificant, but they are necessary for your pet’s health and well-being.
Q: How many teeth do bearded dragons have?
A: Bearded dragons can have up to 80 teeth. They have teeth on both their upper and lower jaws, which are used for biting and chewing their food.
Q: Can bearded dragons get periodontal disease?
A: Yes, bearded dragons can get periodontal disease. If you notice any signs of red or inflamed gums, or a nasty smell coming from your pet’s mouth, it is important to take them to the vet immediately.
Q: How do I clean my bearded dragon’s teeth?
A: You should brush your bearded dragon’s teeth regularly to keep their teeth healthy. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and some water, gently brush their teeth in a circular motion.
Q: Do bearded dragon bites hurt?
A: Yes, bearded dragon bites can hurt, especially if they are feeling threatened or aggressive. It is important to handle your pet bearded dragon gently and with care.
Q: Can bearded dragons open their mouths?
A: Yes, bearded dragons can open their mouths wide, especially when they are feeling threatened or displaying dominance.
Q: What does bearded dragon dentition look like?
A: Bearded dragons have teeth that are small and pointed, and they can look similar to the teeth of humans. Their teeth are fused to their jaw bone, and their upper teeth are sharper and more pointed than their lower teeth.
Q: Do bearded dragon’s teeth fall out?
A: Yes, bearded dragons’ teeth can fall out just like any other animal’s teeth. As they chew and bite, their teeth wear down and can eventually fall out. This is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about.
Q: Can a bearded dragon get gum disease?
A: Bearded dragons aren’t prone to gum disease like humans are, but they can still develop periodontal disease if their teeth aren’t properly cared for.
-Do Bearded Dragon Teeth Require Specific Care for Temperature Regulation?
Bearded dragon teeth don’t directly regulate body temperature, but maintaining proper dental health is crucial for overall well-being and eating habits. Monitoring overall conditions, such as keeping bearded dragon warm, is vital for their health and ensuring they can digest food properly.
Q: Is periodontal disease common in baby bearded dragons?
A: No, periodontal disease is not common in baby bearded dragons. However, it is still important to care for their teeth and check for any signs of gum disease as they grow and develop.
