Hard tartar can’t be brushed away at home. It is removed by your vet, usually under anaesthetic. Daily brushing afterwards means new tartar forms more slowly.
Tartar and Plaque in Dogs
How deposits form and why dental care matters.
At a glance
- What is it?
- Hardened plaque: plaque absorbs minerals from saliva and becomes hard.
- Typical signs
- Yellowish to brownish deposits, bad breath, reddened gums.
- Commonly affected
- Any dog, especially small breeds with closely spaced teeth.
- Possible consequences
- Gum inflammation, pain when eating, tooth loss in the long term.
Interactive symptom check
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When should you see a vet?
Tartar should be mentioned at your dog’s next check-up. See your vet soon if:
- teeth are loose or the gums are bleeding,
- your dog stops eating or only chews on one side,
- swelling appears on the cheek or below the eye.
Tartar forms when soft plaque absorbs minerals from saliva and hardens. It shows as yellowish to brown deposits, often first on the back teeth. Tartar cannot be brushed away at home. Mention it at the next check-up at the vet.
How does tartar form?
After eating, food residue mixes with saliva and bacteria. This creates a soft film. If it stays on the teeth, minerals from the saliva are deposited and it hardens into tartar. Even more plaque then sticks to its rough surface. Basically any dog can get tartar, but small breeds with closely spaced teeth often get it earlier.
Why is tartar more than a cosmetic issue?
- Bad breath and gum inflammation
- pain when eating
- in the long term, damage to the tissues holding the teeth, up to tooth loss
How is tartar removed?
At the vet, usually under anesthesia. Only then can the teeth be cleaned and examined thoroughly, including below the gum line. That is why the US veterinary hospital association AAHA supports dental cleaning under anesthesia.
How do you prevent new tartar?
- Brushing teeth: ideally every day, but at least several times a week, with toothpaste for dogs. This is considered the most effective measure against plaque.
- Chews: Suitable chews can complement dental care, but they don’t replace brushing. Ask the vet which ones are suitable.
- Checks: Look into your dog’s mouth regularly and have the teeth checked at routine appointments.
Frequently asked questions about Tartar
Can I remove tartar myself?
How does tartar form?
Food residue, saliva and bacteria form a soft film. If it stays on the teeth, minerals are deposited and it becomes hard.
Is tartar just a cosmetic problem?
No, it can encourage gum inflammation, pain and, in the long term, tooth loss.
How often should the teeth be checked?
A regular look in the mouth at home and checks at routine appointments with your vet help to spot tartar early.
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Veterinary expertise at the heart of our team
Dr. med. vet. Sibylle Ott has been part of our team at DOG FIT by PreThis® from the very beginning. As an experienced vet, she supports our work professionally and contributes her knowledge of dog health. Her experience and her deep understanding of dogs’ needs are an important guide for us. She is a valuable treasure for our team and for the well-being of many dogs.
This content is for information only and does not replace advice from a vet. Our products are complementary feed for dogs. They do not replace a veterinary examination or treatment. If your dog has any health problems, please contact your vet.
