As we mark National Dental Health Month, it’s timely to note that preventative dental care can add 2 to 4 years to the life of a pet.  Dental care should begin at a young age because more than 80% of pets have the beginnings of periodontal disease by the time they are 2 years old.  Removing plaque and subgingival bacteria early can prevent serious consequences, such as disease of the heart, liver, and kidney; not to mention tooth loss, bad breath and painful gums.