Can I remove plaque from my dogs teeth? Simple and Effective Tips

How to Remove Plaque from Your Dog’s Teeth

A nice long chew does more than prevent your dog from chewing up your favorite pair of shoes … it’s also a great way to scrape away and prevent plaque buildup.

Treats. For the best plaque-fighting dog treats, look for products with the Registered Seal by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).

Toys. Rubber or nylon toys with a rough or bumpy surface feel amazing on dogs’ teeth and won’t cause fractures. Concerned about toxic materials? Look for dog toys labeled BPA-free, earth-friendly or made in the U.S. from 100% natural rubber.

Raw Bones. With their mild abrasiveness and ability to flex around the teeth, raw meaty bones can easily remove plaque and stimulate the gums. Always supervise your dog when giving a bone, and let him chew in an area where messes won’t be a problem! Note: Never give cooked bones to your dog, as they’re more brittle than raw bones and splinter easily.

Limit Table Scraps

We get it; those puppy-dog eyes are hard to resist. But in addition to turning your dog into a bona-fide beggar, or worse – a food thief – regularly feeding your dog table scraps increases plaque buildup. While the occasional table scrap is fine, try not to make it a habit … for your pet’s sake!

Products that Reduce or Remove Dog Plaque & Tartar

Oral home care products that may remove plaque include dental treats, dental wipes, pet-specific toothpaste, or gels used in tooth brushing. Tooth brushing is considered the gold standard in oral home care. Oral rinses and water additives are generally marketed to remove plaque accumulation, however, they are considered largely ineffective without mechanical removal of plaque through brushing. Clenz-a-dent, a chlorhexidine rinse, is often prescribed to reduce gingivitis and bad breath. The main benefit of water additives is a reduction in bad breath.

Dental Cleaning For Dogs At Home

Plaque on your dog’s teeth is never a healthy thing. If left unchecked, it can lead to tartar, which can cause everything from tooth loss to kidney shutdown. I’ve seen dogs with at least one lost tooth from time to time and wonder how they can eat without getting a little messy.

Yes. If the tartar/plaque buildup is left untreated, it can cause gum disease, tooth decay, periodontal disease, bad breath, root exposure and expensive veterinary bills for you. Root exposure is especially bad because since they’re no longer protected by the enamel and the gums, they’re exposed to sensitivities. This makes it painful for the dog.

Tartar is a smart bacteria. After it’s done its work on the teeth and mouth, the plaque then hitches a ride in your dog’s bloodstream. When it does, it can land in the vital organs such as the heart and kidneys. That not only leads to even more expensive veterinarian bills, it can also be very fatal to your dog.