Removing Plaque from Canine Teeth

When food is allowed to accumulate along a dog̵7;s gum line, it can combine with bacteria and saliva to form plaque, which, if left untended, becomes tartar. Tartar is a hard substance that adheres to teeth and can cause pockets in the gums that lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. This can cause bad breath, tooth loss, painful abscesses and heart and other diseases.

  1. The Best Way to Remove Plaque

    • Veterinarians recommend that a dog̵7;s teeth be brushed every day. There are toothbrushes and toothpaste designed for this purpose. It is not advisable to use human toothpaste, because the ingredients can be harmful to a dog if they are swallowed. The trick is to start brushing your dog̵7;s teeth when he is young. This will keep any plaque from accumulating. It will also get your dog used to the procedure. It may be more difficult to start an older dog on tooth brushing and the dog may already have an accumulation of difficult-to-remove tartar.

    How to Brush

    • Use a very soft brush, either one purchased in a pet shop or a children̵7;s brush. The first time you try it, have someone help you hold the dog. A dog generally doesn̵7;t like anyone fooling around with his mouth. Place a dab of toothpaste on the brush. Dogs usually like the taste. Brush the teeth as you would your own, making sure you brush at the gumline.

    Alternatives

    • Most people are not going to brush their dog̵7;s teeth every day. In that case, two or three times a week will suffice, supplemented by dog treats designed to remove plaque. These are hard biscuits, rawhide or bones. A pet shop or veterinarian can recommend the best brands. A raw marrow bone once a week will also help to remove plaque. Do not give the dog cooked bones or any bones that can splinter.

    The Last-Ditch Remedy

    • If your dog has a buildup of tartar and gum pockets, it may be too late for brushing, bones or treats. In that case, the veterinarian may have to put the dog under anesthetic and remove the tartar in a process called scaling. The tartar is scraped away using metal instruments, allowing the gums to heal. After this, the vet will recommend brushing. It may be less effective and more difficult at this stage, but it is definitely worth doing to preserve your dog̵7;s health.