The Importance of Pet Dental Health and How to Keep Your Pet’s Smile Healthy

When it comes to pet health, we often think about their diet, exercise, and vet visits, but dental care is just as essential to their overall well-being. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by the age of three. These statistics underscore the importance of regular dental care to prevent oral health problems that could lead to pain, infections, and even systemic diseases.

In recognition of Pet Dental Health Month, Three Tails is offering 20% off all dental products throughout February, making it the perfect time to prioritize your pet’s oral hygiene. Let’s explore why pet dental health matters and the best products available to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy.

Why Pet Dental Health Matters

  1. Prevention of Disease Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to periodontal disease, which can cause gum inflammation, tooth loss, and chronic pain. If untreated, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, potentially causing issues in the heart, liver, and kidneys.

  2. Pain-Free Eating Dental disease can make eating painful for pets, resulting in decreased appetite and weight loss. Regular dental care ensures that mealtime remains enjoyable and comfortable.

  3. Improved Lifespan Proper dental care can add 2-4 years to your pet's life, as it reduces the risk of serious systemic infections caused by poor oral hygiene.

Top Dental Products to Support Your Pet's Oral Health

Whether you prefer chews, sprays, or natural remedies, there’s a product to fit every pet’s needs. Here are some of the best dental health products from trusted brands:

1. TropiClean

  • TropiClean’s water additives and gels make daily dental care easy. Simply add the water additive to your pet’s bowl to fight plaque, tartar, and bad breath. Their gel formulas are also great for targeted cleaning.

2. PlaqueOff

  • PlaqueOff offers an all-natural seaweed-based powder that you can sprinkle over your pet's food. This product works systemically to reduce tartar buildup and freshen breath over time.
  • PlaqueOff Dental Chews combine the natural, plaque-fighting power of seaweed with a chewy texture that helps reduce tartar buildup and freshen your pet's breath.

3. Stella & Chewy’s

  • Known for their high-quality pet food, Stella & Chewy’s also offers dental treats that combine great taste with oral health benefits, making dental care a treat your pet will look forward to.

4. Skout's Honor

  • Water Additives: Easy-to-use, tasteless formula that fights plaque and tartar buildup while freshening breath—just add it to your pet's water bowl for daily oral care.
  • Dental Gel: A plant-based, highly effective gel that targets plaque and tartar directly while being gentle on teeth and gums, making it ideal for pets who need extra care.
  • Dental Drops: Convenient, on-the-go drops that help reduce bad breath and promote oral hygiene, perfect for quick touch-ups throughout the day.
  • Dental Wipes: Pre-moistened wipes designed for quick and easy cleaning of your pet's teeth and gums, offering a hassle-free alternative to brushing.

5. Northwest Naturals Raw Bones (The Best Dental Chew)

  • For a more natural approach, Northwest Naturals Raw Bones offer a satisfying chew that helps scrape away plaque and tartar. These bones are also an excellent way to provide mental stimulation.

6. Petsmile

  • Petsmile is the only VOHC-approved toothpaste for pets, and it’s made without fluoride, making it safe to swallow. It comes in pet-friendly flavors like beef and chicken to ensure your pet enjoys brushing time.
  • The Petsmile Professional Toothbrush features a patented 45° dual-ended design with soft nylon bristles to clean below the gum line, remove debris, and polish enamel, making it ideal for pets of all sizes.

7. Core Pet

  • Complete Oral Care is an All-natural antiseptic that eliminates bacteria in the pet’s mouth.  When used as suggested, Complete Oral Care is guaranteed to stop the formation of plaque/tartar, break down existing plaque/tartar buildup (even under the gum line) and helps heal the gums of inflammation. Formulas for both dogs and cats. 

8. Woof Bite N Brush

  • These chew toys are designed with built-in bristles to clean teeth while your pet plays. They’re perfect for pets who resist traditional brushing.

9. LickiMat

  • Pair a LickiMat with your pet’s favorite dental-friendly spread, such as West Paw Creamy Treats, to encourage licking. This action stimulates saliva production, which helps clean the mouth naturally.

10. West Paw Creamy Treats

  • These creamy treats can be spread onto chew toys or used with LickiMats. While being a delicious snack, they’re also formulated to support oral health with pet-safe ingredients.

Three Tails February Special: 20% Off All Dental Products

To make it easier for pet parents to prioritize their furry friends’ dental health, Three Tails is offering 20% off all dental products throughout February. This limited-time promotion is the perfect opportunity to stock up on your favorite brands and try new products. Take advantage of this deal to give your pet the care they deserve.

Tips for Maintaining Your Pet’s Oral Health

  1. Choose Natural, High-Quality Products
    Prioritize pet-safe and eco-friendly options, like TropiClean Water Additives or Northwest Naturals Raw Bones, that reflect Three Tails’ commitment to natural wellness for your furry companions.

  2. Incorporate Fun and Enrichment
    Make dental care enjoyable with interactive options like Woof Bite N Brush toys or LickiMats paired with West Paw Creamy Treats, ensuring your pet stays engaged while maintaining oral health.

  3. Support Preventative Wellness
    Regularly use dental sprays, gels, or chews, such as Skout's Honor or PlaqueOff products, to proactively prevent plaque buildup and support your pet’s overall well-being.

  4. Stay Consistent with Care
    Build a routine of brushing, using water additives, or providing dental-friendly treats from Stella & Chewy’s, reinforcing Three Tails’ mission to foster long-term, healthy habits for pets and their families.

Your Pet Deserves a Healthy Smile

Dental care is a crucial part of your pet’s overall health. With the right products and consistent care, you can prevent painful dental issues and keep your pet smiling for years to come. Don’t forget to visit Three Tails in February to take advantage of the 20% discount on all dental products and invest in your pet’s long-term health.

Because a happy pet starts with a healthy smile!