Cats and dogs commonly suffer from dental disease: plaque build-up, tartar and holes.

Gum disease (gingivitis) and root infection lead to loosening of the teeth and ultimately bone infections and sepsis.

How common is this?  

It is estimated that around 85% of cats and dogs by the age of three years have bad teeth that need treatment.

The significance is that untreated dental disease leads to blood born spread of bacteria, which then cause infections elsewhere in the body, as well as heart and kidney disease.  Some authorities estimate untreated dental disease can shorten a pet's life by an average of two years.

Regular cleaning is vital, and this is likely to require scaling and polishing under anaesthetic.  Early, and regular treatment is much easier and cheaper than major dental surgery for cases that have been left too long.