All Smiles for Pet Dental Health

Published on: 4/29/2025

Key Takeaways

Bad dog breath is more than a nuisance–it’s often an early warning sign of plaque, tartar buildup, and harmful bacteria that can lead to periodontal disease.
Dental disease is extremely common, affecting up to 80% of dogs before age 3, and can cause gum inflammation, infection, tooth loss, and pain.
Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting a pet’s heart, kidneys, and other vital organs if left untreated.
Watch for key symptoms like tartar at the gumline, brown teeth, mouth pawing, chewing on one side, decreased appetite, or weight loss. Protect your pet’s dental health with daily brushing, tartar-control powders, dental treats like Greenies, and regular veterinary dental cleanings.

Your pup shows you a toothy smile, and immediately a green cloud of smelly dog breath engulfs you. Whew, now that is ruff!

While your pet’s less than pleasant breath may seem innocent, it’s anything but. Similar to humans, when pets develop excess plaque and tartar, harmful bacteria soon follow, as does the risk for periodontal disease. Oral disease can quickly inflame the animal’s gums, leading to cavities, infection and tooth loss.

What’s even more concerning? Your pet’s dental health impacts more than his mouth. Harmful bacteria from your pet’s mouth can enter the bloodstream, with potential to spread into his most vital organs and threaten his life, if left untreated.

Dental disease is the No. 1 illness affecting pets today. It’s estimated that 80% of dogs have dental disease before they are even 3 years old.

Watch for these crucial signs of dental disease:

- Tartar along the gums
- Brown, discolored teeth
- Pawing at the mouth
- Only chewing on one side
- Decreased interest in food
- Weight loss

Make sure you are taking steps to protect your pet’s pearly whites. Consistent, at-home dental care is one of the best ways to help ensure healthy teeth and gums. Brush your pet’s teeth regularly with pet-formulated tooth paste (daily brushing is recommended, if at all possible). Also, there are powders to control tartar buildup in between cleanings, offering pet owners an additional option to brushing - as well as tasty dental treats like Greenies. Don’t forget: Like us, pets require regular dental checkups. Work with your veterinarian to schedule dental exams and teeth cleanings to help guarantee a long life filled with toothy smiles and tail wags!