Dental disease affects the majority of dogs over three years old and is a leading source of chronic pain that is often undetected by owners.
Dental disease is one of the most common welfare problems in companion dogs, causing chronic pain that owners frequently miss because dogs rarely vocalize dental discomfort. Bacteria from infected teeth can cause systemic illness. The gold standard of treatment — professional cleaning and extraction under general anesthesia — is often deferred due to cost or anesthesia concerns. Regular veterinary dental checkups, home dental hygiene, and dental-supporting diets are the most effective welfare interventions.