Your dog’s dental health is just as important as yours. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to serious issues like bad breath, gum disease, and tooth loss. Understanding the difference between plaque and tartar and knowing how to prevent and treat them will help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.
What is Plaque & Tartar in Dogs?
Plaque is a soft, sticky layer of bacteria and food particles that forms on your dog’s teeth. If not removed, it hardens and turns into tartar, a rough, yellowish-brown substance that clings to the teeth and gums. Plaque can be cleaned at home with brushing, but tartar requires professional removal by a veterinarian.
Tartar vs. Plaque in Dogs (With Pictures)
- Plaque: A thin, colorless or pale yellow film that can be removed with brushing.
- Tartar: A hardened layer of mineralized plaque that appears yellow or brown and requires professional cleaning.
- Visual Comparison:
- How to Identify: Run your finger over your dog’s teeth. If the surface feels rough or you see discoloration, tartar may already be present.
Causes of Plaque and Tartar Build-up
- Diet: Dogs that eat wet food are more prone to plaque buildup because it sticks to their teeth. Dry kibble, particularly specially formulated dental diets, helps reduce plaque by mechanically scrubbing teeth. Providing raw bones or dental chews can also help keep teeth clean.
- Lack of Dental Care: Without regular brushing, plaque hardens into tartar, which leads to gum disease and tooth decay. Dental treats and enzymatic wipes can help but are not a substitute for brushing.
- Breed & Genetics: Small breeds and brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs like Pugs and Bulldogs are more prone to dental issues due to crowded teeth that trap food particles and plaque.
- Age & Saliva Composition: Older dogs produce more plaque because their metabolism slows down, and changes in saliva composition make their mouths more prone to bacterial buildup.
Symptoms of Plaque & Tartar in Dogs
Mild Signs:
- Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
- Slightly bad breath
Moderate Signs:
- Red or inflamed gums
- Increased bad breath
- Difficulty chewing
Severe Signs:
- Bleeding gums
- Loss of appetite
- Loose or missing teeth
- Excessive drooling, sometimes with blood
Health Risks of Untreated Plaque and Tartar
Ignoring dental care can lead to:
- Bad Breath (Halitosis): Caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar.
- Gingivitis & Periodontal Disease: Infection of the gums and surrounding structures.
- Tooth Loss & Pain: Severe tartar can loosen teeth and cause discomfort.
- Systemic Health Risks: Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Prevention Strategies
- Daily Brushing: Use a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Dental Treats & Chews: Help scrape plaque off teeth.
- Veterinary Cleanings: Necessary when tartar buildup is severe.
- Water Additives & Oral Gels: Reduce bacterial growth in the mouth.
How to Remove Plaque and Tartar from Your Dog’s Teeth
Professional Cleaning
A licensed veterinarian (DVM) performs a thorough dental cleaning under anesthesia. This includes scaling to remove hardened tartar and deep-set plaque, followed by polishing to smooth the teeth and prevent further buildup. In severe cases, extractions may be necessary to prevent infection and pain.
If your dog is showing signs of tartar buildup, don’t wait for complications. Book a professional dog dental cleaning at BAAH Veterinary Clinic in Vancouver to ensure your pet’s oral health is in top shape. Our expert team is here to help.
At-Home Dental Care for Your Dog
Taking care of your dog’s teeth at home can prevent plaque buildup and reduce tartar formation. Here’s what you can do:
- Daily Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and enzymatic dog toothpaste to remove plaque before it turns into tartar.
- Dental Wipes & Sprays: These can help reduce plaque buildup between brushings.
- Dental Chews & Toys: Specially designed chews and rubber toys help scrape plaque from teeth naturally.
- Water Additives & Oral Gels: These products contain enzymes or antiseptics that break down bacteria and reduce tartar formation.
If your dog has red, swollen gums, bad breath, visible tartar, or difficulty eating, it’s time to schedule a professional dental exam with your vet.
[Read More: How Often Should You Brush Your Dog’s Teeth? ]
Conclusion
Regular dental care is essential for your dog’s health. Brushing, using dental chews, and scheduling vet cleanings can prevent plaque from turning into tartar. Keep your dog’s teeth clean, and they’ll stay happy and healthy for years to come.
FAQs
What do plaque and tartar look like on dog teeth?
Plaque appears as a thin, colorless or pale yellow film on your dog’s teeth. Tartar, on the other hand, is a hardened, rough, yellow or brown buildup that clings to the teeth and gum line.
Are plaque and tartar the same thing?
No. Plaque is a soft biofilm that can be removed with brushing, while tartar is hardened plaque that requires professional cleaning.
What are the early warning signs of dental disease in dogs?
Bad breath, red or swollen gums, yellow or brown buildup on teeth, and difficulty chewing.
Can plaque cause pain in dogs?
Yes. As plaque builds up and turns into tartar, it can lead to inflamed gums, infections, and discomfort.
Is bad breath in dogs always a sign of dental issues?
Not always, but persistent bad breath is a strong indicator of plaque, tartar buildup, or gum disease.
How do I know if my dog needs a professional dental cleaning?
If your dog has noticeable tartar, inflamed gums, bleeding, bad breath, or trouble eating, a vet visit is necessary.
What happens if plaque and tartar are left untreated in dogs?
Untreated plaque and tartar can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, infections, and even organ damage.
Can my dog lose teeth due to tartar buildup?
Yes. Advanced tartar buildup can weaken the gums and bones, leading to loose or lost teeth.
How do vets remove tartar from a dog’s teeth?
Vets perform a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia, which includes scaling and polishing.
Are there natural remedies to reduce plaque in dogs?
Yes. Dental chews, raw bones, coconut oil, and water additives can help slow plaque buildup.
Plaque appears as a thin, colorless or pale yellow film on your dog’s teeth. Tartar, on the other hand, is a hardened, rough, yellow or brown buildup that clings to the teeth and gum line.
