Many pet owners know that procedures like spaying and neutering help pets stay healthy and well-behaved. These procedures also help reduce the number of strays and unwanted animals, which makes them undeniably important.

But when was the last time you thought about your dog’s dental health — or even considered bringing your dog to a pet dental clinic?

The truth is that pets need dental care just as much as we do. This is especially true for our dogs, whose teeth can experience plenty of plaque and tartar build-up over time.

Brush up on the need to provide dog dental care to your four-legged friend with these three reasons why pet dental hygiene matters just as much as the importance of spaying and neutering your pet:

Regular dental checkups prevent pain

Unlike other people, our pets aren’t able to tell us when they’re in pain. As a result, you may not be aware that your pet is in pain until the problem becomes extreme. Regular dental checkups can help prevent this from happening, ensuring your dog doesn’t have to deal with painful tooth-aches. Your dog will be a much happier member of your family when he or she isn’t experiencing dental pain!

Pet dental care prevents tooth loss

Did you know that a full-grown dog will have 42 teeth? Each of these teeth is essential for chewing, biting and functioning. If your dog loses one or more teeth, this can be extremely painful and lead to serious health complications. By bringing your dog to a dog dental care clinic regularly, this tooth loss can be prevented.

Caring for your dog’s teeth will prevent numerous health problems

Much like spaying or neutering your dog can lengthen her or his lifespan by one to three years, ensuring your dog gets regular dental care is important for making sure he or she lives the longest, healthiest life possible. Dental care can help prevent periodontal disease, which has negative effects for the heart and other organs. And when your pet is healthier, your pet will be happier, as well.