Dental Health is Whole Body Health for Pets
Written by Traci Baker DVM
When most pet parents think about dental care, they picture fresh breath or clean teeth. But dental health goes far beyond cosmetic concerns — it plays a major role in your pet’s overall health, longevity, comfort, and quality of life. Just like in people, oral disease in dogs and cats doesn’t stay confined to the mouth. It impacts major organs, immune function, chronic inflammation, and systemic health.
Why Dental Disease Happens
Dental disease forms over time as bacteria in the mouth combine with food particles, creating plaque. If plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, which sits under the gumline and causes painful inflammation called gingivitis. Left untreated, this progresses into periodontal disease — one of the most common illnesses we diagnose in adult pets.
According to veterinary studies, up to 70% of cats and 80% of dogs have some degree of dental disease by age 2 (1).
How Oral Disease Affects the Whole Body
1. Chronic Inflammation
Periodontal disease isn’t just a “mouth problem.” The body treats oral bacteria as an infection. That ongoing immune response creates systemic inflammation, which has been linked to:
shortened lifespan
worsened chronic disease
increased pain levels
decreased immune resilience
2. Heart Health
Bacteria from infected gums can travel through the bloodstream and contribute to endocarditis and valvular disease in both dogs and cats. Veterinary cardiologists often note a correlation between dental disease and cardiac disease in senior pets (2).
3. Kidneys & Liver
Oral bacteria can also impact organs responsible for filtering the bloodstream. Chronic exposure can strain the kidneys and liver, especially in aging pets or those with pre-existing disease.
4. Pain Management & Behavior
Animals often hide oral pain. What looks like normal eating can actually mask:
difficulty chewing
food dropping
pawing at the face
decreased appetite
irritability or behavior changes
Prevention is Powerful
The good news? Dental disease is preventable and treatable. Early intervention reduces the need for extractions, lowers long-term costs, and protects systemic health.
Veterinary Dentals Include:
✔ Dental radiographs (full-mouth x-rays)
✔ Professional cleaning above & below the gumline
✔ Anesthesia for safety & comfort
✔ Assessment for fractured or loose teeth
✔ Treatment plans or extractions if needed
Home care also helps, especially:
brushing (daily or several times/week)
dental diets or rinses (vet-recommended)
When Should Pets Have a Dental Cleaning?
Most pets benefit from dental evaluation starting around age 1–2, with cleanings scheduled based on breed, dental anatomy, and home care. Small breeds, brachycephalics (like pugs), and cats often require earlier and more frequent dental care.
Aging Pets Benefit Even More
Senior pets commonly have silent dental disease, and improving oral health often improves:
appetite
activity
mood
mobility
sleep
cognition
Better dental health = better whole-body health.
Final Takeaway
Dental cleanings are more than a “cosmetic procedure.” They are an important part of preventative medicine, just like vaccines, heartworm prevention, and annual labs. Protecting the mouth helps protect the heart, kidneys, liver, immune system, and quality of life — and that’s something every pet deserves.
References
Wiggs RB, Lobprise HB. Periodontology, In: Veterinary Dentistry, Principles and Practice. Lippincott Raven; 1997:186-231.
Cheney Veterinary Clinic offers an annual Dental Month promotion during January and February, featuring 15% off routine dental cleanings. This discount applies to the full dental package, including anesthesia, IV fluids, the dental procedure, and full-mouth radiographs.
Speak with our team to determine whether your pet is an appropriate candidate for dental cleaning this season. Spots tend to fill quickly during these months, so early scheduling is recommended.
☎️ Call or text (509) 235-6860 to book your pet’s dental appointment!
