Periodontal disease affects over 80% of dogs by age three, causing chronic pain that significantly impairs quality of life. Prevention through daily dental care dramatically reduces suffering and veterinary costs.
Dental disease is among the most prevalent and underrecognized sources of chronic pain in companion dogs. Dogs rarely show obvious pain signs from dental disease, instead gradually reducing chewing, changing food preferences, or becoming irritable — signs easily attributed to aging. The cumulative welfare cost across the dog population is substantial. Daily toothbrushing from puppyhood, combined with regular veterinary dental assessment, prevents most severe disease. Owners who detect and address dental disease are extending both their dogs health and quality of life. Veterinary pain management during dental procedures is essential as cleaning inflamed periodontal tissue is painful.