Dog owners understandably get anxious about the health of their beloved pets - especially when there’s a problem some where down the line.
But one thing that is sometimes forgotten about is their dental hygiene.
And veterinary technicians Peter and Jaycee have revealed the horrifying consequences of not brushing your dog’s teeth regularly.
A viral video, released on their TikTok account Vet Techs, shows them performing an emergency dental procedure on an 11-year-old dog.
The clip shows how hair, food and plaque has built up in its mouth over the years.
As part of the procedure, Peter and Jaycee remove clumps of grey gunk from its upper teeth.
The “impacted hair and food” falls off easily, with many viewers referring to it as “satisfying”.
More than 5.3 million views and more than 1,500 comments have been left on the clip, with some people admitting they didn’t know dogs needs to have their teeth brushed.
One said: “I’ve never brushed my dogs teeth and I’ve had him for eight years and his teeth are great.”
Another agreed: "Never brushed my dogs teeth, but they are cleaner and more white then mine."
Peter and Jaycee encouraged people in the comments section to brush their pet's teeth regularly, and explained "not many people think you need to".
The duo also warned that the same can happen in cats and humans.
Thankfully, many other TikTok users appeared to keep on top of their dog's dental health.
One person wrote: "I brush my puppy’s teeth and he’s recently been to the dentist. His health is first priority ALWAYS."
Another said: "I brush my dogs teeth every day."
How do I keep my dog's teeth healthy?
According to the RSPCA, you should start cleaning your dog's teeth every day when they are a puppy and continue this routine into their adult life.
You should ask your vet to show you the best way to do this, as different breeds have varying jaw alignments.
Human toothpastes are not suitable for dogs and you can find canine-friendly toothpastes readily available on the market.
Dental chews and treats are also a great way of helping to keep your dog's teeth clean, as is a balanced diet.
