FUNCTIONAL HEALTH -- DENTAL AND PERIODONTAL CARE

Why Dental Health Is a Longevity Issue

Dental disease is not confined to the mouth.

Chronic oral inflammation is linked to:

  • kidney disease

  • heart disease

  • systemic inflammation

  • reduced lifespan

Yet it’s one of the most underestimated health risks in pets.

Early Signs of Oral Inflammation

Many pets show no obvious pain, even with advanced disease.

Watch for:

  • bad breath (not “normal”)

  • reluctance to chew

  • pawing at the mouth

  • facial rubbing

  • reduced appetite for hard food

Functional Health View of Dental Disease

Dental disease is:

  • a chronic inflammatory condition

  • a source of constant immune activation

  • a contributor to systemic aging

The question is not:

  • “Are the teeth bad?”

But:

  • “Is oral inflammation affecting whole-body health?”

What to Evaluate First

At-home observations

  • breath quality

  • chewing symmetry

  • gum color

  • drooling

Veterinary evaluation

  • oral exam

  • dental radiographs (critical)

Interventions That Actually Matter

High-impact

  • professional dental care when indicated

  • addressing retained roots and bone loss

Supportive

  • oral hygiene strategies

  • targeted anti-inflammatory support

  • diet texture considerations

When Dental Health Changes the Longevity Plan

Dental disease may:

  • worsen kidney values

  • complicate cardiac disease

  • increase anesthetic risk later

Addressing it earlier often simplifies everything else.

Next Step

If oral inflammation is suspected:

  • complete a Dental Functional Health worksheet

  • determine whether monitoring or intervention is appropriate

  • consider a Longevity Consult if multiple systems are involved