Is a dog's tongue cleaner than a human's? - briefly
No, a dog's tongue is not cleaner than a human's. Despite the common misconception, dogs' mouths harbor a wide range of bacteria due to their scavenging nature and habit of licking various surfaces.
Is a dog's tongue cleaner than a human's? - in detail
The notion that a dog's tongue is cleaner than a human's has been widely circulated, but this misconception warrants clarification. The primary reason for this belief lies in the unique structure of a dog's tongue and its function in maintaining oral hygiene.
A dog's tongue is covered in tiny, backward-facing papillae that act like small bristles on a brush. When a dog licks its fur or an object, these papillae help to remove dirt and debris. Additionally, the rough surface of a dog's tongue can facilitate the removal of dead skin cells and other impurities from the surface it comes into contact with. However, this does not imply that a dog's tongue is inherently cleaner than a human's.
Human tongues, on the other hand, have a smoother surface with fewer papillae and are not designed for extensive grooming purposes. The primary function of the human tongue is related to taste, speech, and swallowing. While both dogs and humans possess bacteria in their mouths, the types and amounts can differ significantly due to dietary habits and oral hygiene practices.
Dogs have a much higher concentration of certain bacteria in their mouths, particularly those associated with decaying matter and animal carcasses. This is because dogs are scavengers by nature and often consume substances that humans would consider unclean. Conversely, human oral hygiene routines typically involve brushing teeth, using mouthwash, and regular dental check-ups, which contribute to a cleaner oral environment compared to dogs.
In summary, while the structure of a dog's tongue may facilitate the removal of surface impurities, it does not make the tongue itself cleaner than that of a human. The difference in bacterial content and the practice of regular oral hygiene underscore the importance of maintaining proper dental care for both humans and their canine companions.