Dental do’s and don’ts to share with clients this Pet Dental Health Month

Dental disease is one of the most common conditions affecting dogs and cats. The American Veterinary Dental Society estimates that more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop oral disease by the time they are 3 years old.¹ When left untreated, oral disease can lead to chronic pain, tooth loss, and infection that may impact organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.

This slideshow outlines dental DOs and DON’Ts recommended by the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center (AMC) to help veterinarians reinforce key dental health messages with clients, including daily home care, safe dental products, and common practices that can increase the risk of oral injury or disease. Because dogs and cats often hide signs of oral pain, dental disease can progress silently. These slides are intended to support conversations around prevention, early detection, and the role of professional dental care in overall patient health.

Reference

1. Hoyer N. Preventing dental disease in dogs and cats. Colorado State University. January 23, 2024. Accessed February 12, 2026. https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu/vth/animal-health/keeping-your-pets-teeth-clean-is-important-to-their-overall-health/#:~:text=Dental%20disease%20is%20an%20infection,kidney%20disease%20if%20left%20untreated.