Dental disease affects the majority of companion animals over the age of three and causes chronic pain that is often unrecognised by owners, making it one of the most widespread welfare problems in pets.
Dental disease in companion animals is one of the most under-recognised welfare problems precisely because it is so common and its signs are so easy to miss or explain away. A dog that is slightly less enthusiastic about toys, or a cat that is eating more slowly, may simply be 'getting old' in owners' minds, when in reality they are experiencing chronic oral pain. The stoicism of prey animals and the social bonding of dogs mean both species mask pain effectively. Annual dental checks by a veterinarian are essential, and tooth brushing from an early age dramatically reduces disease burden. The barrier is owner education and engagement: most owners are unaware of how prevalent and painful dental disease is in their pets, and most do not brush their pet's teeth.