How To Get Tartar Off Dogs Teeth

Have you ever noticed that unpleasant brownish-yellow buildup on your dog's teeth? That's tartar, and unfortunately, it's a common problem affecting a significant percentage of dogs. Tartar isn't just unsightly; it's a hardened form of plaque that can lead to serious oral health issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, and even systemic health problems as bacteria enter the bloodstream. Maintaining your dog's dental hygiene is crucial for their overall well-being and can help prevent pain, costly vet bills, and a diminished quality of life.

Just like humans, dogs need regular dental care to keep their teeth healthy. Ignoring tartar buildup can result in bad breath, difficulty eating, and painful infections. By taking proactive steps to remove and prevent tartar, you're investing in your dog's long-term health and happiness. Fortunately, there are several effective methods you can use at home and with the help of your veterinarian to combat tartar and keep your furry friend smiling bright.

What are the best ways to remove tartar and prevent it from coming back?

What are the best ways to remove tartar from my dog's teeth at home?

While professional veterinary cleaning is the most effective and safest way to remove stubborn tartar, you can implement several at-home methods to help prevent its build-up or address mild cases. These methods include regular tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste, providing dental chews designed to scrape away plaque and tartar, using dental wipes, and incorporating dental diets or additives into their food or water.

Effective at-home tartar removal focuses primarily on *prevention* and managing mild tartar accumulation. Brushing your dog's teeth daily is the gold standard. Use a toothbrush designed for dogs (or a finger brush) and enzymatic dog toothpaste. Human toothpaste contains ingredients harmful to dogs if swallowed. Focus on the outer surfaces of the teeth, where tartar tends to accumulate most. Consistency is key; even a quick brushing session is better than none. Dental chews work by mechanically scraping tartar off teeth as the dog chews. Look for Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)-approved chews, as these have been scientifically proven to be effective. Dental wipes can be helpful for dogs resistant to brushing, though they're generally less effective. Wipe the teeth and gums gently but thoroughly. Dental diets are specially formulated kibble designed to help reduce plaque and tartar. They often have a larger kibble size and a rougher texture. Water additives containing chlorhexidine or other antibacterial agents can also help to reduce plaque formation. Remember that if your dog has significant tartar build-up, inflamed gums, or pain, a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia by a veterinarian is necessary to properly address the issue and ensure your dog's comfort and oral health.

Are there any dog-safe products specifically designed to dissolve tartar?

While no product can completely "dissolve" existing, hardened tartar, several dog-safe products are designed to soften tartar, inhibit further buildup, and freshen breath. These typically work through enzymatic action, abrasive texture, or chemical compounds that help break down the tartar and make it easier to remove through chewing or brushing.

Although some products claim to dissolve tartar, it's important to understand that true tartar, also known as calculus, is a hardened mineral deposit that is very difficult to remove without mechanical action, such as scaling by a veterinarian. Products marketed for tartar control work best as a preventative measure, or to soften existing tartar enough that it can be dislodged more easily through other methods like brushing or dental chews. Enzymatic toothpastes, for example, contain enzymes that disrupt the bacterial matrix in plaque, which is the precursor to tartar. These toothpastes won't dissolve established tartar, but they can help prevent new plaque from hardening. Dental chews and treats are another common category of tartar control products. Their abrasive texture helps to scrape away plaque and tartar as the dog chews. Some chews are also formulated with ingredients like sodium hexametaphosphate, which can inhibit the mineralization of plaque into tartar. Dental diets are similar, with larger kibble sizes and textures designed to promote mechanical cleaning. It’s important to choose products specifically formulated for dogs and to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Always supervise your dog while they are chewing and discard any small pieces that could be a choking hazard. Regular veterinary dental cleanings are still generally necessary for effective tartar removal, even with the use of these products.

How often should I brush my dog's teeth to prevent tartar buildup?

Ideally, you should brush your dog's teeth every day to prevent tartar buildup. Daily brushing disrupts the formation of plaque, the sticky film that hardens into tartar. Even brushing a few times a week is better than nothing, but daily is the gold standard for optimal oral health.

While daily brushing is best, realistically, many dog owners find this challenging. Aim for brushing at least three times a week. Consistency is key. Make it a positive experience for your dog by using dog-specific toothpaste (human toothpaste is toxic to dogs) and offering praise and rewards. Start slowly, gradually introducing the toothbrush and toothpaste to your dog. Focus on the outer surfaces of the teeth, as this is where tartar tends to accumulate most. If your dog already has significant tartar buildup, brushing alone won't remove it. In these cases, a professional dental cleaning by a veterinarian is necessary. After the cleaning, maintain a regular brushing routine to prevent further tartar accumulation. In addition to brushing, dental chews and special diets formulated for dental health can also help reduce tartar buildup between brushings.

What are the risks of leaving tartar untreated on your dog's teeth?

Leaving tartar untreated on your dog's teeth can lead to a cascade of serious health problems, starting with gingivitis and progressing to periodontal disease, which can ultimately result in tooth loss, chronic pain, and systemic infections affecting vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened plaque that adheres stubbornly to the teeth. Initially, the accumulation of plaque (a sticky film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva) irritates the gums, causing inflammation known as gingivitis. If the plaque is not removed through regular brushing or professional cleaning, it mineralizes into tartar. This hardened tartar provides an even rougher surface for more plaque and bacteria to accumulate, exacerbating the gum inflammation. Untreated gingivitis progresses to periodontal disease, a more severe condition where the supporting structures of the teeth (gums, ligaments, and bone) become damaged. As periodontal disease advances, pockets form between the teeth and gums, creating havens for bacteria. These bacteria release toxins that further erode the tissues and bone. This process not only causes pain and difficulty eating but also allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This bacteremia can then spread to other organs, potentially leading to serious infections and complications. For example, bacteria lodging in the heart valves can cause endocarditis, a life-threatening infection. Similarly, the liver and kidneys can be damaged by chronic inflammation and bacterial toxins circulating in the bloodstream. Therefore, proactive dental care is essential for your dog's overall health and well-being.

Can my vet remove tartar from my dog's teeth, and what does that involve?

Yes, your vet can absolutely remove tartar from your dog's teeth. This process, known as a dental cleaning or prophylaxis, typically involves scaling, polishing, and a thorough examination of your dog's mouth while they are under general anesthesia.

A professional dental cleaning is the most effective and safest way to remove tartar buildup. Unlike human dental cleanings, dogs need to be anesthetized for this procedure. This is because they won't sit still or cooperate, and anesthesia allows the vet to perform a thorough cleaning both above and *below* the gumline – a critical aspect for preventing periodontal disease. Scaling removes the tartar and plaque using specialized tools, often ultrasonic scalers, which vibrate at high speeds to dislodge the buildup. Hand scalers are used for more precise removal, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Following scaling, the teeth are polished with a special paste, which smooths the surface and makes it more difficult for plaque to adhere. The vet will also probe the gum pockets to assess for any signs of periodontal disease, such as pockets, inflammation, or bone loss. They may take dental X-rays to further evaluate the health of the teeth and bone beneath the gumline. Extractions of severely diseased teeth may be necessary in some cases. After the procedure, your vet will discuss home dental care options to help maintain your dog's oral hygiene and prevent future tartar buildup, such as regular brushing, dental chews, or special diets.

Besides brushing, what other methods can help control tartar?

Beyond regular brushing, several methods can help control tartar buildup on your dog's teeth, including dental chews and toys specifically designed to scrape away plaque and tartar, a diet formulated to promote dental health, and professional veterinary dental cleanings. These approaches mechanically remove plaque and tartar, modify the oral environment, or provide a more thorough cleaning than you can achieve at home.

Dental chews and toys work by providing abrasive action as the dog chews, physically removing plaque and tartar. Look for Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) approved products, which have been scientifically proven to be effective in reducing plaque and tartar accumulation. The act of chewing stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth, further inhibiting plaque formation. However, always supervise your dog while they are chewing on these products to prevent choking or swallowing large pieces. A dental diet is another proactive way to manage tartar. These diets often contain larger kibble sizes that encourage chewing and have a special texture or coating designed to scrape teeth as the dog eats. Some also include ingredients that bind calcium in the saliva, which helps prevent tartar from hardening. Finally, regular professional dental cleanings under anesthesia are crucial for removing stubborn tartar buildup that home care methods cannot address. Your veterinarian can also identify and treat any underlying dental problems during these cleanings, helping maintain your dog's overall oral health and preventing more serious issues down the line.

Are there certain dog breeds more prone to tartar buildup than others?

Yes, smaller dog breeds and those with crowded teeth are generally more prone to tartar buildup than larger breeds. This is because their teeth are closer together, creating more areas for plaque and bacteria to accumulate and harden into tartar. Additionally, some breeds may have saliva with a different pH or composition that contributes to faster tartar formation.

While genetics and breed predisposition play a significant role, remember that any dog can develop tartar buildup if their dental hygiene isn't properly maintained. Small breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, and Toy Poodles are particularly susceptible due to their smaller mouths and crowded teeth. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs also often have dental issues due to their misaligned bites. These malocclusions create crevices where food particles can easily become trapped, leading to increased plaque and tartar formation. Beyond breed, diet and chewing habits greatly influence tartar accumulation. Dogs fed a diet primarily consisting of soft food are more prone to tartar buildup because they don't get the abrasive cleaning action that comes from chewing on hard kibble or dental chews. Regular chewing also stimulates saliva production, which helps to naturally clean the teeth. Therefore, even within a breed known for good dental health, an improper diet and lack of appropriate chew toys can significantly increase the risk of tartar buildup. Here are some common dog breeds that are more prone to tartar buildup:

So, there you have it! Taking care of your dog's pearly whites might seem daunting at first, but with a little consistency and the right approach, you can keep that tartar at bay and keep your furry friend smiling. Thanks for reading, and we hope these tips help you on your journey to a healthier, happier pup! Be sure to check back for more helpful advice on pet care and keeping your best pal in tip-top shape!