Many pet owners overlook the importance of oral hygiene in their dogs. According to the American Veterinary Dental College, the majority of dogs over three years old show signs of periodontal disease. This can lead to some major health issues later in your dog’s life, such as tooth loss, painful abscesses and infections that can spread throughout your dog’s entire body. Periodontal diseases can also lead to an increased risk of jaw damage and heart disease.
There are many ways you can help protect your canine companion from periodontal issues, such as regular brushings, dental treats and drinking-water additives for dogs. Dog water additives have been proven to prevent tooth decay in canines while also inhibiting plaque buildup and bad breath. Certain brands also double as a pet teeth cleaner, giving your dogs a bright-white smile. While manually brushing your pet’s teeth or getting them professionally cleaned is the best option, water additives and oral rinses are easy to use and can help to maintain your dog’s already healthy teeth.