Tartar and plaque build up can become a serious health issue for your dog if left untreated. Dental disease affects the teeth and gums as well as the supporting structure for the teeth. This can lead to broken teeth or even tooth loss. Tooth loss and poor gum health can sometimes make your dog refuse to eat and drink, especially if they are in pain.
Poor dental hygiene can lead to even more serious issues like compromising the dog’s liver, kidneys and heart. You can either provide toys that help remove tartar and plaque before build up, or have your dog’s teeth cleaned once a year. There are also some edible products available that are also beneficial to prevent build up.