Dental disease affects 80% of dogs over three years - causing chronic pain that is frequently unrecognised and undertreated.
Canine dental disease is a chronic pain condition affecting the majority of adult dogs, yet rates of treatment and prevention remain very low. Dogs with severe periodontal disease are living with constant oral pain that they cannot communicate - owners notice behaviour changes only when severe, by which time significant irreversible damage has occurred. Introducing tooth brushing from puppyhood is the single most impactful preventive action. Annual veterinary dental checks with oral scoring enable early detection and treatment. The welfare case for more proactive dental care in dogs is clear and the interventions are accessible.