Companion Animals

Dog Periodontal Disease Prevention

Periodontal disease affects the majority of adult dogs and causes chronic pain, tooth loss and systemic disease that is substantially preventable through daily dental care.

Key Facts

Periodontal disease affects over 80% of dogs over 3 years of age in some studies
Bacterial biofilm progresses to plaque, calculus and periodontal destruction causing chronic pain
Daily toothbrushing with pet toothpaste is the most effective home prevention
Dental chews, water additives and dental diets provide partial but incomplete benefits
Professional dental cleaning under anaesthesia is required once significant tartar accumulates

Welfare Considerations

Periodontal disease causes chronic pain that most owners are unaware of because dogs rarely show obvious signs. Daily toothbrushing from puppyhood prevents the most common dental welfare problem in dogs.

What You Can Do

Begin daily toothbrushing with pet-safe toothpaste from puppyhood to prevent periodontal disease
Schedule annual professional dental checks with your vet to assess dental health
Book dental cleaning under anaesthesia when significant tartar accumulation is identified