According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have dental disease by the age of three. Oftentimes it is not noticed until advanced disease is present, with bad breath, difficulty eating or chewing, pawing at the face, and generalized depression as the most common signs noticed.
Just like us, our pets need their teeth and gums regularly cleaned for optimal dental health. Excessive tartar build-up and gingivitis can affect other internal organs, such as the heart or kidneys. I recommend regular professional dental cleaning for pets with tartar accumulation and gingivitis as a component of optimal preventative health care.