Prevention: Protect Today to Avoid Problems Tomorrow
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It’s often said that “prevention is better than cure” – and when it comes to your dog’s dental health, that couldn’t be more true. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs, and it often develops silently, long before any symptoms appear.
By the age of three, over 80% of dogs already show signs of dental disease. If left untreated, the build-up of plaque and tartar can lead to pain, infection, tooth loss, and even affect your dog’s heart, liver, or kidneys.
The good news? It’s preventable. With a simple daily routine, you can tackle the problem before it starts – sparing your dog discomfort and saving yourself costly vet bills down the line.
Why Prevention Matters in Canine Dental Health
Dental disease often begins subtly: soft plaque forms on the teeth after meals. Over time, it hardens into tartar and creeps beneath the gumline, causing inflammation, gingivitis, and eventually periodontal disease.
Once it progresses to that stage, treatment becomes more invasive, more costly, and often requires a general anaesthetic.
Key Takeaways
- Break the plaque cycle early
- Prevent pain and inflammation
- Extend time between professional cleanings
- Reduce risk of systemic diseases
Think of it like brushing your own teeth: you don’t wait for cavities – you prevent them with simple daily habits. The same principle applies to your dog.
The Hidden Costs of Inaction
Not all symptoms are obvious. Dogs are experts at hiding pain, and dental disease can go unnoticed until it’s advanced. Here’s what can happen when plaque is left unchecked:
• Pain and Tooth Loss
Gum infections can erode the bone that supports the teeth. This may lead to loose or missing teeth – and significant discomfort when eating.
• Heart and Organ Damage
Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs, particularly the heart, kidneys, and liver. This condition, known as bacteraemia, is a serious risk in cases of advanced dental disease.
• Expensive Treatments
Dental surgery, extractions, and deep cleans under general anaesthetic can cost hundreds – even thousands – of pounds. Prevention is far more cost-effective (and far gentler on your dog).
Preventative Care Made Easy with ProDen PlaqueOff®
Consistency is key to prevention – but it doesn’t have to be difficult. That’s why ProDen PlaqueOff® offers simple, vet-approved solutions for daily dental care. Every format contains the clinically studied A.N ProDen® seaweed, which works from the inside out to combat plaque.
Each option offers a different way to support your dog’s oral health: the Powder works systemically through the saliva to help prevent build-up; the Dental Bones provide double-action cleaning through chewing and seaweed; and the Soft Chews offer a gentle, tasty alternative – ideal for older dogs or fussy eaters.
Start Early, Stay Consistent
Preventative dental care should begin while your dog is still young – even before any signs of plaque appear. But it’s never too late to start. The sooner you establish a routine, the better you’ll protect their long-term health.
Try this simple daily plan:
• Morning: Sprinkle PlaqueOff® Powder on their food
• Afternoon: Offer a Dental Bone after playtime
• Evening: Optional brushing or a Soft Chew as a treat
This layered approach provides your dog with round-the-clock support – while keeping the routine enjoyable and stress-free.
FAQs – Preventing Dental Problems in Dogs
Start from around 6 months of age – ideally as soon as your dog’s adult teeth come in. Early dental care helps establish good habits and prevents problems later on.
Yes – PlaqueOff® can still help. If your dog already has tartar, a professional clean may be needed first. After that, PlaqueOff® can help reduce further build-up and soften any remaining tartar over time.
Many vets recommend annual dental check-ups. With regular use of PlaqueOff®, you may be able to extend the time between professional cleans.
Yes – plaque can start forming just hours after eating. Daily prevention is the most effective way to protect your dog’s mouth and overall health.
ProDen PlaqueOff® offers effective, no-brush options such as powders, chews, and bones – all backed by science and easy to use.