As a pet parent, it is your responsibility to keep your furry friends happy and healthy. One of the best ways to achieve this is to keep your pet’s mouth healthy.

Dogs need dental care for the same reasons that we do. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from oral health problems such as gum disease, plaque, tooth loss and others. Unfortunately, a lot of pets haven’t had their teeth looked after. In fact, 32% of pet owners admitted that they only brush their dog’s teeth a few times a year, which is not enough to make an impact in their pet’s dental health.

Here are the reasons why you should take care of your dog’s teeth.

Prevents bad breath

Daily brushing can help remove food particles from between the dog’s teeth. Plus, professional dental cleaning can prevent the accumulation of plaque and improve the health of your pet’s mouth; thus, preventing bad breath.

Periodontal disease

You wouldn’t go a few days without brushing your teeth, right? So, why would your dogs? Believe it or not, plaque forms on the tooth a few minutes after eating. Overtime, bacteria and plaque solidifies, forming hard calculus.

Studies suggest that 80% of dogs aged 3 and up suffer from periodontal disease. This can be incredibly painful. Regular teeth cleaning and dental exams are important to prevent periodontal disease.

Prevent health problems

Dental problems, when left unchecked, may lead to serious health problems. The bacteria can end up in the bloodstream, which may lead to kidney and heart problems.

Because dogs usually try to hide their pain, most owners do not notice that their pets are in great pain. They may still act and eat fine despite having abscessed teeth or bleeding gums. You might never know about it until it’s in the advanced stage. This is why you need regular dental care.

Increase lifespan

Oral health problems can negatively affect your dog’s health. As it progresses, it can actually shorten the life expectancy of your canine companion. Invest a little bit of your time and money in your pet’s dental health to ensure that your furry best friend stays healthier and live longer.