You might already know that neglecting your dog's dental care can lead to gum disease, causing symptoms like bad breath and bleeding gums. What you might not realize is that poor dental hygiene can also lead to more serious health problems for your pet.

Here are 5 alarming consequences of ignoring your dog’s dental health:

1. Triggers the Immune System

   When dogs have dental problems like plaque or infected gums, their bodies fight back with inflammation. This immune response is meant to heal, but if it’s always turned on due to ongoing dental issues, it can wear out the immune system, making your dog more vulnerable to other sicknesses.

   
   

2. Increases Heart Disease Risk

   Bacteria from diseased gums can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart, causing inflammation and damage. This increases the risk of heart conditions, showing how closely dental health is linked to overall heart health.

   
   

3. Complicates Nutrient Absorption

   Poor dental health can make it difficult for dogs to chew and break down food properly, which can lead to poor nutrient absorption. This can affect their overall health and energy levels, as they are not getting the full benefit of their meals.

   
   

4. Causes Hidden Pain

   Dogs are experts at hiding pain, so dental issues can go unnoticed until they become severe. Chronic dental problems can cause discomfort while eating, playing, or chewing, and you might notice subtle signs like less enthusiasm for hard food or toys.

   
   

5. Risks of Broken Teeth

   Poor dental hygiene in dogs can do more than cause cavities; it can also weaken their teeth, making them susceptible to breaks. This issue is especially critical for small breeds that typically have large teeth for their size. As teeth weaken over time due to dental disease, they become more vulnerable to fractures.