Does a Bearded Dragon Have Teeth? All Thing Need To Know

When it comes to domesticated animals, bearded dragons are some of the most unique and interesting creatures that you can keep as a pet. Not only are they extremely social and low maintenance, but they also have an exotic look that few other pets can match. While these little critters have many peculiar traits to offer owners, one mystery lies in their mouths: Does a Bearded Dragon Have Teeth? This post will uncover everything there is to know about this curious question! From what type of teeth make up their mouthparts to how they use them for eating and interacting with one another and their environment, read on for all the answers you’ve been seeking.

What is a bearded dragon?

Bearded dragons, or Pogona, are a species of australian reptiles known for their social behavior and affinity for warmth. Not to be confused with the popular pet lizards, iguanas, bearded dragons have unique features that set them apart from other reptiles. Chief among these is their ‘beard’ – a flap of skin on the underside of their chin and throat which darkens when they become agitated, giving them a fierce appearance. In addition to this trademark feature, these animals have an unusually large head and wide-set eyes – both of which enable them to spot potential prey from far distances.

Does a bearded dragon have teeth?

Bearded dragons have teeth, known as ‘acrodont dentition’, which are attached to the jaw bones. They are born with these teeth and ready to eat. Their diet consists of vegetables and insects. Their teeth are not as sharp or pointed compared to other reptiles. This does not necessarily mean that they cannot cause harm, especially if the bearded dragon feels threatened and bites in self-defense.

Despite having teeth, bearded dragons do not chew their food like humans do. They are omnivorous animals with a preference for insects in their diet. Insects provide a good source of protein and are essential for the growth and development of bearded dragons.

How many teeth does a bearded dragon have?

Bearded dragons have 80 teeth – more than twice the amount of what humans have. 34 to 40 teeth can be found on the top of their mouth, while another 34 to 40 teeth can be found on the bottom. These teeth are sharp, thin and pointed, making it easier for them to catch and eat their prey.

Apart from the obvious function of helping bearded dragons tear apart their food, their teeth also serve other purposes. For one, they play a vital role in maintaining the dragon’s jaw structure. The constant pressure exerted by these teeth while chewing helps keep their jaws strong and healthy. Additionally, the teeth also help in regulating the bearded dragon’s body temperature. These reptiles are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. By basking under a heat lamp and warming up their bodies, bearded dragons can digest their food more efficiently and faster.

How bearded dragon use their teeth?

Bearded dragons have pleurodont teeth which are found on their bottom jaw only. Pleurodont teeth are used in conjunction with upper teeth to grip and manipulate prey. Bearded dragons use their tongues and sometimes front legs to lunge at and pull prey into their mouths. They also use their teeth to shear and crush tough food items such as insects with hard shells or tough plant material.

In the wild, bearded dragons primarily eat insects, small rodents, and vegetation. Their sharp teeth come in handy when catching and consuming these types of prey. In captivity, a varied diet including crickets, mealworms, vegetables, and fruits should be provided to ensure proper nutrition and dental health.

Bearded dragons also use their teeth for defense. When threatened, they may open their mouths wide and display their sharp teeth as a warning signal. They may also bite if they feel like they are in danger or being handled too roughly. However, with proper handling and socialization, bearded dragons can become docile pets that rarely bite.

Can bearded dragon lose their teeth?

Bearded dragons have permanent, non-replaceable teeth that cannot be regenerated. However, new teeth are added at the back of the jaw with growth. The gums attach to the lower lingual and buccal aspects of the jawbones, increasing the chance of bacterial colonization and infection. This can result in tooth loss due to periodontal disease.

Some common signs that your bearded dragon may be experiencing tooth loss include difficulty eating, changes in appetite, and visible gaps or missing teeth. It is important to regularly check your bearded dragon’s mouth for any signs of dental issues and consult with a veterinarian if you notice anything concerning.

To prevent tooth loss in bearded dragons, it is important to maintain proper oral hygiene by regularly brushing their teeth and keeping their enclosure clean. Providing a balanced diet with appropriate calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation can also help keep your bearded dragon’s teeth healthy.

How to take care of bearded dragon’s teeth?

Cotton buds can be used to remove plaque from teeth twice a week. Diluted chlorhexidine solution can be used to soak the cotton bud before use to help prevent bacterial growth. It is important to brush the teeth gently and in circular motions. It is also essential to check for any signs of tooth decay, such as discoloration or visible cavities. Regular visits to a reptile veterinarian are recommended to ensure proper dental health. The vet can perform professional cleanings and address any potential issues before they become serious problems.In addition to regular cleaning and check-ups, a healthy diet is crucial for maintaining strong teeth in bearded dragons. A balanced diet of calcium-rich foods, such as leafy greens and insects, can help prevent tooth decay and promote good oral health.

Things that can damage your bearded dragon’s teeth

Bearded dragons are at risk of developing periodontal disease due to a number of factors. According to Clinical Veterinary Advisor: Birds and Exotic Pets, these include the tone in which they are spoken to.

• Poor diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies.
• Poor water quality can cause illness and weaken immune system, increasing chances of mouth infections.
• Improper tank temperatures and lighting can lead to metabolic bone disease, tooth brittleness, decay, and disease.
• Prolonged stress weakens the immune system and increases risk of oral health issues.
• Oral trauma can occur as a result of pet store conditions, unsafe shipping, or fighting with another dragon. Cohabitation is not recommended as it increases the risk of oral trauma.

Should you brush your bearded dragon’s teeth?

While brushing your bearded dragon’s teeth may not be necessary, proper dental hygiene is essential for their overall health. Bearded dragons have small, conical teeth that are adapted for their omnivorous diet. Their constant tooth replacement means that losing a tooth is not typically a cause for concern. However, maintaining a balanced diet and providing clean, fresh drinking water can help prevent dental issues.

While brushing your bearded dragon’s teeth is not necessary, a thorough dental check-up by a reptile veterinarian at least once a year can help identify any potential oral health problems. Your veterinarian may recommend a dental cleaning if necessary, which involves scaling and polishing their teeth under anesthesia. This is typically only necessary in severe cases where the buildup of tartar and plaque cannot be removed through regular dental maintenance. Read more at cal-cares.com

Can bearded dragons bite with their teeth?

Dragons rarely bite, and when they do it usually isn’t serious. A dragon bite may be painful due to their sharp teeth. If bitten, the site may swell and bleed. If this happens, make sure to clean the wound thoroughly and monitor for infection. However, it is important to note that bearded dragons can bite if they feel threatened or scared. This is their natural defense mechanism and should not be taken lightly. It is important to handle them carefully and properly to avoid potential bites.

Also, try: what size tank for bearded dragon

How to care for a bearded dragon without teeth?

Though it’s true that bearded dragons don’t have teeth, they do have other methods of eating and surviving. In particular, these reptiles rely on their sharp claws and powerful jaws for food gathering. This means that owners must ensure that their pet has plenty of rocks, logs, and vegetation to climb over and scratch at in order to find prey – otherwise their dietary needs will not be met. Additionally, owners must take care when handling these animals to avoid accidentally ripping or tearing their delicate skin. As far as diet is concerned, bearded dragons can eat a variety of insects and vegetables; however, they should never be fed raw meat, poultry, or fish – all of which could cause serious digestive upset and even death.

Risks with feeding your dragon without teeth

While a bearded dragon without teeth may seem like a unique creature, it’s important to remember that these animals still require the same care as any other reptile. As such, owners must take particular caution when feeding them – especially if they are prone to over-eating or ingesting parasites and bacteria. Additionally, because of their lack of teeth, these animals may have difficulty digesting certain kinds of food or consuming large prey items. Therefore, it is essential that owners are aware of what their pet can and cannot eat in order to prevent any unpleasant digestive issues from occurring.

Conclusion: Does a bearded dragon have teeth?

Does a Bearded Dragon Have Teeth? In conclusion, bearded dragons do indeed have teeth. These teeth are crucial in facilitating their omnivorous diet, which includes both animal protein and plant material. With between 50 to 60 teeth in total, positioned in their upper and lower jaws, bearded dragon teeth are continuously replaced throughout their lifespan, ensuring that they remain sharp and functional for efficient hunting and eating. Bearded dragons use their teeth to manipulate their food, tear through fibrous plant material, and subdue their prey. Proper dental care, including a balanced diet, clean drinking water, and regular check-ups, is paramount in keeping their teeth in good condition. While bearded dragons can and will bite if they feel threatened or stressed, their bites are not typically dangerous due to the small size of their teeth. Therefore, understanding the importance of bearded dragon teeth and taking proper care of them is essential for the overall health and well-being of these fascinating reptiles.

FAQ Bearded dragon teeth

What do bearded dragons teeth look like?

Bearded dragons possess approximately 30-40 teeth in their upper jaws. These teeth are small and difficult to observe due to their size. They have a flat, triangular shape similar to a blade. Unlike human teeth, bearded dragons’ upper teeth lack both a root and socket.

Can bearded dragons have teeth?

Bearded Dragons are born with teeth – they are ready to eat upon entering the world. They have ‘acrodont dentition’, where their teeth are attached to their jaw bones and not in sockets.

Can I brush my bearded dragon teeth?

Bearded dragons are born with sharp teeth with which they can safely consume their crunchy insect and vegetable diet. Generally, brushing your dragon’s teeth is not necessary unless instructed by a veterinarian. Good husbandry is the key to preventing dental disease and keeping your dragon healthy.

Should I clean my bearded dragons teeth?

Regular husbandry routines should include dental hygiene, such as using a makeshift toothbrush. Cotton buds can be used to remove plaque every two days and prevent it from hardening into tartar.

What is the best way to prevent bearded dragon teeth problems?

Adopt good husbandry practices for bearded dragons. Avoid dried pellet food and freeze-dried insects. Provide a healthy calcium-rich diet with greens, veggies, and live feeder insects like Dubia roaches.