There are over 83M domestic dogs in the US alone, with 47% of households owning one or more. Periodontal disease leads to serious complications (halitosis, pain, gum damage, tooth loss, bone infection, jaw fracture, fistula), and impacts overall canine health (liver, kidney, cardiac and metabolic function).
Diagnosis and further progression of the disease demands expensive dental cleanings ($200-$500), periodontal procedures (>$500) and tooth extractions (>$1,000), all performed under general anesthesia, which can also be detrimental to the animal’s health. Moreover, advanced stages of canine periodontal disease can negatively affect health, quality of life and mortality.