How to Remove Plaque from a Dog’s Teeth: 6 Effective Methods
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When living with your furry friend, your dog’s health should be at the top of your agenda.
Dental care is one of the critical areas that you should look at, not just because their continued oral health prevents (or, at the least) minimizes the typical issue of bad breath in your pooch, but also to maximize the quality of your dog’s life.
Our pets’ teeth might be a secondary concern at a young age, but they should always be considered.
Today, we are looking at six effective methods of removing plaque from your dog’s mouth. Done regularly and with care, these methods will prevent tooth decay and tooth loss and maintain healthy gums. Let’s brush.
The Importance of Dental Care for Dogs
It’s reported that 80% of dogs experience dental disease as early as three years old. It affects the teeth, gums, and surrounding structures of the teeth, resulting in pain and discomfort for your poor pooch. But it all starts with plaque build-up, which contains bacteria and food particles that are bad for dental health.
It’s deceiving as your dog’s teeth can be white as pearls and still contain plaque, which forms a substance called “dog tartar.” A vet can see this substance clearly, as can a layperson.
We’ve added a picture below to exemplify how dog owners are often subtly aware of the condition and write it off as a normal dog thing. In reality, staying on top of it and keeping those choppers healthy is imperative.
1. Regular Brushing
It’s optimal to brush your dog’s teeth twice a day. When an action like teeth cleaning is done regularly, your dog starts to expect and even enjoy it. They’re a lot like humans with their routines.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste
A regular toothbrush won’t remove plaque like one specifically designed for dogs. The latter are made to handle a dog’s jaw. You can purchase dog toothpaste tailored to your dog’s oral care instead of human toothpaste, which is toxic to dogs.
Ensure that you consider your dog’s size and preferences when choosing both. You can even get toothpaste that tastes like chicken if your dog is resistant.
Establish a Brushing Routine
The more you establish the routine, the better your dog’s oral hygiene will become as they expect and even enjoy the process of grooming. But it has to be introduced gradually so that they become comfortable with the process.
Use positive reinforcement such as treats, playtime with chew toys, and praise and cuddles to make them even more receptive to the process.
2. Dental Chews & Toys
A chew toy that handles dental cleaning is a good thing to have as it is ergonomically designed to remove plaque and other bacteria from their teeth. Look into purchasing one or two, as your dog will clean their own teeth unprompted by chewing on one of these.
3. Dental Wipes & Sprays
A Dental wipe is a finger glove that lets you clean your dog’s teeth by hand. The dental spray is a substance like a tiny deodorant can that you spray into your dog’s mouth. They may not like the taste, so make sure to treat your pup afterward.
4. Professional Dental Cleaning
It’s important to schedule professional teeth cleaning when necessary. If your dog has receding gum lines, loose teeth, and is reluctant to eat, this, amongst other signs, informs you that your dog should see a veterinary oral health council. If you notice severe symptoms like these, then schedule an appointment ASAP.
5. Diet & Nutrition
Finally, you can avoid dental health issues in your dog’s gum and teeth in the first place by giving them a dental-specific diet and even nutritional supplements that support your dog’s oral health. Many products on the market will help you give your pooch the best oral health possible.
The Bottom (Jaw) Line
Taking care of your dog’s dental health is essential for their well-being. With these practical methods, you can remove plaque from your dog’s teeth, maintain oral hygiene and prevent dental health issues. By implementing these six effective ways to remove plaque from your dog’s teeth, you can maintain their oral hygiene and prevent dental issues like gum disease and bad breath.
Remember to consult your veterinarian for personalized advice and recommendations based on your dog’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use human toothpaste for brushing my dog’s teeth?
No. Human toothpaste is toxic for dogs.
How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?
Twice a day is optimal. Once a day is good too.
Are there any natural remedies for removing plaque from a dog’s teeth?
Coconut treats contain antibacterial substances that can help your dog with dental hygiene.
What are the signs of dental problems in dogs?
Dog tartar is a common sign, as is gum inflammation. But also resistance to food, slow chewing, and mouth-pawing are signs of discomfort and pain.
Can certain dog breeds be more prone to dental issues?
Smaller breeds like poodles, Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers have a higher risk of dental problems.
How long does it take to see improvement in my dog’s dental health?
Patience is key. You will see a difference after three or four weeks of consistent dog dental cleaning.
Are there any alternative options for dogs who refuse to have their teeth brushed?
Products like water additives are good, as are chew toys. Sprays, dental treats, and dental chews are better than no care at all.
Sara is an experienced veterinarian with a history of working in Veterinary Medicine, Client Education, Dogs, Pet Care, and Surgery. She is a strong healthcare services professional with a graduate degree from St. George's University. You can connect with her on LinkedIn.
