How to Remove Dog Teeth Tartar and Plaque
Healthy teeth and gums are crucial to your dog’s overall happiness, whether they are playing tug of war or chewing on treats. A great way to keep your dog’s teeth healthy and avoid dental disease is to establish a daily oral care regime care against a build-up of plaque and tartar on dog’s teeth.
Plaque and tartar on dog’s teeth
Plaque begins to form on your dog’s teeth after your dog has eaten food. The bacteria from the food mix with your dog’s saliva which stick to the surface of their teeth. An off-white sticky substance coats the outside of your dog’s teeth, commonly known as plaque.
Within 3-5 days, if the plaque remains in contact with the tooth, it will harden and become tartar. Tartar is formed when the existing plaque mixes with minerals in your dog’s saliva.
Tartar is noticeable from its brown appearance, which looks rough on the surface of your dog’s teeth. Bad breath and inflammation of the gums also go hand in hand with the build-up of tartar. If the tartar on dog’s teeth is not removed, it can cause many dental issues including gingivitis and periodontal disease in dogs.
How to remove plaque from dog’s teeth
Removing plaque from dog’s teeth daily will help to maintain good oral health. There are easy changes you can make to remove plaque from dog's teeth naturally, as well as preventing a further build-up, including:
- Diet – A complete and balanced diet, tailored to the lifestage of the dog is essential or their overall health. Dry food and help to clean the teeth as it has an abrasive texture that wipes the surface of the tooth as the dog eats.
- Toys –safe toys with small bumps that your dog will chew and play with may help remove tartar from dog’s teeth
- Brushing your dog’s teeth – Daily tooth brushing is the very best way to care for dog’s teeth and gums. Top tip: remember to introduce tooth brushing gradually and follow our step by step guide.
