Dental Disease in Dogs and Prevention

Periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs over three years old and a major source of chronic, unrecognised pain.

Key Facts

Periodontal disease affects over 80% of dogs over three years old
Bacteria in the mouth enter the bloodstream causing systemic effects on kidneys, liver, and heart
Tooth brushing is the most effective preventive measure but is practised by only a minority of owners
Dental diets, water additives, and enzymatic chews provide supplementary benefit
Professional dental scaling and polishing under general anaesthesia is required for established disease

Welfare Considerations

Dental disease causes chronic pain from gum inflammation, root exposure, and tooth resorption that dogs rarely show overtly due to their stoic nature. The systemic effects of chronic periodontal bacteria entering the bloodstream may accelerate kidney and cardiac disease. Regular dental home care from puppyhood dramatically reduces disease burden throughout a dog's life. Owner education about dental disease prevalence and home care implementation is the most important preventive welfare intervention available to veterinarians and the pet industry.

What You Can Do

Brush your dog's teeth daily using canine toothpaste from puppyhood
Arrange annual dental examinations with your vet including exploration of individual teeth
Use dental diets, chews, or water additives as complements to tooth brushing
Ask your vet about professional dental treatment if your dog has established periodontal disease