Understanding Tartar and Plaque in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

What are Plaque and Tartar?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms on the surface of teeth. It consists of bacteria, saliva, and food particles. This film accumulates quickly, often within hours of eating. If plaque isn’t removed regularly, it hardens into tartar, also known as calculus.

Tartar is a hard, yellowish-brown deposit that adheres firmly to the teeth. It’s much more difficult to remove than plaque and requires professional dental cleaning. Tartar provides a rough surface that further encourages plaque accumulation, creating a vicious cycle of dental problems.

Causes of Plaque and Tartar Buildup

Several factors contribute to the formation of plaque and tartar in dogs. Diet, age, breed, and oral hygiene practices all play a significant role. Let’s examine these factors in more detail:

• Diet: Dogs fed soft, wet food are more prone to plaque buildup than those fed dry kibble. Dry food has a mild abrasive effect that helps to scrape away plaque.
• Age: Older dogs are more likely to have tartar buildup due to years of plaque accumulation. Regular dental care becomes even more important as dogs age.
• Breed: Certain breeds, particularly small breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Maltese, are predisposed to dental problems. Their teeth are often crowded, making them harder to clean.
• Oral Hygiene: The most significant factor is the lack of regular teeth cleaning. Without brushing or other dental care, plaque quickly hardens into tartar.

The Dangers of Untreated Tartar and Plaque

Ignoring plaque and tartar buildup can lead to serious health problems beyond just bad breath. These dental issues can have a significant impact on your dog’s overall health and quality of life. Here’s a breakdown of the potential complications:

• Gingivitis: This is an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque and tartar. Symptoms include red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care.
• Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. This is a more severe form of gum disease that involves the destruction of the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Periodontitis is irreversible and can lead to tooth loss.
• Tooth Loss: As periodontitis progresses, the teeth become loose and eventually fall out. This can make it difficult for your dog to eat and can significantly impact their quality of life.
• Pain and Discomfort: Dental disease can be painful for dogs, even if they don’t show obvious signs of discomfort. The inflammation and infection associated with plaque and tartar can cause chronic pain.
• Systemic Infections: Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and spread to other organs, such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. This can lead to serious systemic infections and organ damage.

Preventing Tartar and Plaque Buildup

Preventing plaque and tartar buildup is the best way to protect your dog’s dental health. A proactive approach to oral hygiene can save you money and prevent your dog from experiencing pain and discomfort. Consider these preventive measures:

• Regular Brushing: Brushing your dog’s teeth is the most effective way to remove plaque. Aim to brush daily, or at least several times a week. Use a toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs, as human toothpaste can be harmful.
• Dental Chews and Toys: Dental chews and toys can help to scrape away plaque and tartar as your dog chews. Look for products that are specifically designed for dental health.
• Dental Diets: Some dog food brands offer dental diets that are formulated to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. These diets often contain special ingredients or have a kibble texture that promotes chewing and cleaning.
• Professional Dental Cleanings: Regular professional dental cleanings are essential for removing tartar that has already formed. Your veterinarian can perform a thorough cleaning under anesthesia.
• Water Additives: Certain water additives can help to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. These additives typically contain enzymes or other ingredients that inhibit bacterial growth.

Treating Existing Tartar and Plaque

If your dog already has tartar buildup, professional dental cleaning is usually necessary. This procedure, performed by a veterinarian, involves scaling and polishing the teeth to remove tartar and plaque. Here’s what you can expect:

• Anesthesia: Dental cleanings are typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure the dog’s comfort and safety. Anesthesia allows the veterinarian to thoroughly clean all surfaces of the teeth, including those below the gum line.
• Scaling: Scaling involves using specialized instruments to remove tartar from the teeth. This can be done manually or with ultrasonic scalers.
• Polishing: After scaling, the teeth are polished to smooth the surface and make it more difficult for plaque to adhere.
• Dental Examination: During the dental cleaning, the veterinarian will also examine the teeth and gums for any signs of disease. They may take X-rays to assess the health of the tooth roots and surrounding bone.
• Post-Cleaning Care: After the dental cleaning, it’s important to continue with regular home dental care to prevent future tartar buildup. This includes brushing, dental chews, and a dental diet.

In some cases, if the dental disease is severe, tooth extraction may be necessary. This is usually done when a tooth is severely damaged or infected and cannot be saved.

Recognizing the Signs of Dental Problems

Being able to recognize the signs of dental problems in your dog is crucial for early detection and treatment. Many dogs will not show obvious signs of pain, so it’s important to be observant. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:

• Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath is one of the most common signs of dental disease.
• Excessive Drooling: Increased drooling can indicate pain or discomfort in the mouth.
• Difficulty Eating: If your dog is hesitant to eat hard food or chews differently, it could be a sign of dental problems.
• Pawing at the Mouth: Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face against furniture can indicate pain or irritation.
• Red or Swollen Gums: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums are a clear sign of gingivitis or periodontitis.
• Loose Teeth: Loose teeth are a sign of advanced periodontal disease.
• Discolored Teeth: Yellow or brown stains on the teeth indicate tartar buildup.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early treatment can help to prevent serious complications and improve your dog’s quality of life.