Lion Teeth Damaged: Does a lion really die due to tooth decay? Very few people know this fact.

Eating food is necessary for everyone, be it humans or animals. Humans also need teeth to eat food, and they brush their teeth to clean them. The question is, what happens when a lion's teeth get damaged?

Like humans, many animals rely on their teeth for survival. The lion, the majestic king of the jungle, also hunts with its teeth. But did you know that a lion's life can be cut short by the decay of its teeth? For instance, a lion with severe tooth decay may struggle to eat, leading to malnutrition and a weakened immune system. This vulnerability of wild animals to dental problems is a lesser-known fact that deserves our attention.

Animal teeth:

Lions, leopards, tigers, crocodiles, and all other forest animals hunt only with their teeth. However, the question is whether their teeth also deteriorate like humans' or whether they decay because they are also non-vegetarians. Let us tell you that the teeth of animals get damaged less, but if the teeth of an animal like a lion get damaged, it can also lead to its death. This is because their diet, which often includes tough meat and bones, can put significant strain on their teeth.  

Let's delve into the captivating world of big cats. Members of the cat family, such as tigers and lions, possess saliva with an incredibly high pH value. This unique saliva acts as a natural shield, protecting their teeth's enamel, the shiny upper layer of their teeth. It's a marvel of nature, a fascinating adaptation that prevents cavities. However, even with this natural defence, the teeth of lions and tigers can still decay, leading to their demise. 

Dental problems in animals:

Research shows that dental problems can be the difference between life and death for wild animals. A good hunter, like a lion, depends on good teeth to kill its prey. At the same time, carnivorous big cat species have teeth suitable for biting and tearing. Research also shows that big cats can lose teeth in an accident due to decay or gum disease. These dental issues can significantly impact their ability to hunt, leading to malnutrition and a weakened immune system, which can ultimately result in death.

This stark contrast in dental care is why lions in zoos often outlive their wild counterparts. As they age, they face a higher risk of dental problems from consuming a bland diet, unlike their wild counterparts, who have a varied diet. In zoos, veterinarians are on hand to provide regular check-ups and necessary treatments, including tooth extractions. They also ensure that the animals' diet is nutritionally balanced and appropriate for their dental health. However, in the wild, such care is not possible, leading to infections and death among animals like lions.