Canine Periodontal Disease
- Everwell Pets
- Feb 18
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 27
Did you know that periodontal disease tops the charts as the most frequently diagnosed oral issue in dogs? Recent studies have really zoomed in on this problem, revealing just how widespread it is and how serious it can be for our beloved furry friends. It's all about inflammation and infection of the tissues around their teeth, and get this—up to 80% of dogs can be affected by age three! Crazy, right?
Health Issues Related to Periodontal Disease
Let's dive deeper into why your pup’s pearly whites matter more than just for a cute smile. Beyond causing bad breath and sore gums, periodontal disease in dogs is no small thing. It's been linked to a whole range of health issues—heart disease, kidney problems, and even diabetes. Sounds pretty serious, right? Studies show that bacteria from infected gums can travel through the bloodstream, affecting organs far beyond the mouth [1]. That’s why it’s super important to make dental care part of your dog’s overall wellness routine --- and the sooner you start, the better! Keeping those teeth clean isn’t just about preventing tartar buildup—it’s about keeping your pup’s entire body in top shape!
Rethinking Periodontal Disease Prevention
Let’s be real—how many pet owners actually brush their pet’s teeth every day? Not many! In fact, from a clinical perspective, Dr. Stein has seen that only 2-3% of dog owners and less than 1% of cat owners are committed to a daily brushing routine. And honestly? I believe it and get it. Some days, I barely manage to brush my own teeth, let alone tackle the dental hygiene of my entire animal crew!
Though, Dr. Emily Stein, a microbiologist with a PhD from UC Berkeley, pointed out in a past podcast that brushing can be effective—if done twice daily, just like our own dental care, she believes it’s time to rethink how we care for our pets' teeth. Instead of relying solely on brushing and dental cleanings, she champions a preventative approach—one that combines mechanical stimulation (like chewing & brushing) and dietary support to keep those chompers healthy.
Did You Know? In human dentistry, there’s little statistical proof that brushing alone significantly improves gum disease. Instead, diet plays a massive role—especially when it’s low in carbohydrates. And you guessed it—that principle applies to our pets too.
Dietary Support For Healthy Teeth
Switching to a frozen, raw species-appropriate diet that is naturally low in carbohydrates is one of the most powerful ways to prevent gum disease.
In addition to diet, mechanical stimulation is key! Think Bully Sticks, plush (non-toxic) toys, and raw meaty bones—all of which help naturally clean teeth through abrasion.
I have a tiny 7-pound client who’s raw-fed and loves to suckle on her stuffed animals—and her teeth are in fantastic shape. It’s impressive, given her small mouth and the typical dental struggles of toy breeds. I suspect the gentle daily abrasion from her plush toys is working wonders. Honestly? I love this approach so much, I’m planning to encourage it with my next puppy. Because let’s face it—anything that keeps their teeth clean without me wrestling a toothbrush into their mouth is a win!
A Hidden Danger For Dental Health
Let’s talk about something we often overlook—your pet’s food and water bowls. If you’re not washing them regularly, you’re basically serving up a side of biofilm (a slimy layer of bacteria from saliva) with every meal. Gross, right? This buildup isn’t just unappetizing—it can actually contribute to dental issues over time.
This is especially important in multi-dog households where everyone’s sharing the same bowls. Personally, I hand wash my dog’s water bowl daily and give it a deep clean in the dishwasher once or twice a week to keep things fresh.
Regular Dental Inspections
Dr. Emily Stein also stresses the importance of checking your pet’s teeth and gums regularly and keeping records of any changes—especially if you have a breed prone to dental issues. Dogs with small heads or squished faces (brachycephalic breeds) often need extra attention due to post-nasal drip and a less-than-ideal microbiome (partially because they weren’t born through a natural vaginal delivery).
Prevention is Key!
If you’re looking for a way to stay proactive, print out a canine dental chart (google it) and start monitoring your pet’s oral health today. Because the best way to avoid expensive dental procedures is to catch issues early!
Right now, my go-to for supporting oral health is good old-fashioned brushing—but in my house, it’s all about personalized care based on each dog’s mouth microbiome.
Here’s the breakdown: 🐾 Torch - gets a brushing every other day 🐾 Crosby - gets his done twice a week 🐾 Riggs - He’s on the once-a-week plan
Why the different schedules? Honestly, it’s a time-saving strategy that works for us.
Now, I do have clients who are religious about brushing their dogs' teeth once or even twice a day—if you’re in that club, hats off to you! But for the rest of us struggleing to incorporate this schedule while juggling a million other things, consistency over perfection is what really counts.
In Summary
The more we learn about periodontal disease in dogs, the clearer it becomes—dental health is a big deal for their overall well-being. And here’s the thing: prevention is everything.
By staying informed and proactive, pet owners can do more than just fight off bad breath—they can help their dogs enjoy healthier lives and happier smiles for years to come. So, whether it’s brushing, diet, or good old-fashioned chew time, every little effort counts!
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Citations:
[1} PetMD, 2021; American Veterinary Dental College