Introduction

This probably doesn’t come as a shock to pet owners, but dogs and cats are not just pets; they are a part of our family. We feed them and we care for them, unfortunately, dental hygiene tends to get overlooked in their healthcare. 

Just like humans, our four-legged family members can also suffer from dental issues, with tartar buildup being one of the most common problems. Ignoring their oral health can lead to bad breath, gum disease, and even serious health complications if left untreated.^1-5 Fortunately, preventing and managing tartar can be quite easy in most cases.

Understanding tartar and its impact

So, what is tartar? Tartar, also known as calculus, is a hardened form of plaque that builds up on your pet’s teeth, just like it does on our teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms after eating.6 If not removed, it mineralises and turns into tartar, which adheres strongly to teeth and can be troublesome to remove without professional care.^1-5

The process of tartar formation is exactly the same as it is for humans, and it starts with food particles left in the mouth. Bacteria that we and our pets have in our mouths break these particles down, leading to plaque formation. When this plaque is not brushed away, minerals in saliva cause it to harden into tartar.^1-6 Unfortunately, tartar is not just a cosmetic issue. It is rough and it creates a perfect environment for more bacteria to thrive, leading to gum disease and infections.

Consequences of tartar buildup

• Bad Breath: One of the first signs of tartar buildup is persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis
• Gum Disease: Tartar buildup leads to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, causing red, swollen gums that may bleed.
• Tooth Loss: Over time, tartar can cause periodontal disease, which weakens the structures holding teeth in place, leading to tooth loss
• Systemic Health Issues: Untreated tartar can lead to severe infections, which can spread to vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys^1-5

Preventing tartar buildup

Ok, so tartar is bad, we understand that. What can we do to ensure that our pets' oral health is well? It is actually quite easy, and there are a few things to keep in mind. It is worth noting that the combination of the methods below should give the optimal results.

First of all, as we humans do, pets need a daily oral routine. Brushing your pet's teeth is an excellent start to that. Even brushing your pet's teeth 2-3 times per week has proven to yield positive results, although ideally it should be every day.^1,5,7 It is worth noting that this should be done with a pet toothbrush and toothpaste, as human toothpaste may be toxic to pets. 

The downside of teeth brushing in pets is that it is labour-intensive on the human, as this is a training process for pets, and some may be more stubborn towards it than others. It is suggested that teeth brushing training should start slowly for your pet, and the owners should try to make it a positive experience.

If toothbrush training is not going well and they are not tolerating brushing, there are alternatives such as dental wipes or oral rinses, both of which could help reduce plaque.^1-5

Chews are also an excellent way to prevent tartar. Both specifically designed dental chews and natural chewing options, such as raw bones or chew toys, will mechanically help remove plaque.^1-5 Although it is important to choose the chews carefully, as not all pets will like all of them. Pets' individual needs also need to be noted, as very hard objects like antlers or hooves might be too hard for some pets and result in further dental damage. 

Lastly, dry kibble may also help reduce tartar compared to wet food, as it can stick to teeth and promote tartar. There are also some specifically formulated dry pet foods that break down plaque during meal time.^1-5 

Even if you are employing one or more of these methods, it should be noted that an annual veterinary check-up is still very beneficial. They may be able to assist you and your pet in better-suited ways to prevent tartar. If your pet is showing signs such as persistent bad breath, yellow/brown tartar on teeth, red, swollen and/or bleeding gums, difficulty eating or pawing at the mouth, it might be beneficial to make a visit to the vet sooner rather than later.  

Managing existing tartar

What if there already is tartar on our pets' teeth? Fortunately, it is not a grim scenario, although actions need to be taken to prevent even more serious health conditions. 

First of all at at-home dental care should still continue even if there is tartar present. This will slow down further buildup. In the meantime, dental gels, sprays, water additives (with specific enzymes) and specific dental chews will slowly break down the existing plaque.^1-5 

If these at-home methods don’t work or are not as effective, professional scaling and cleaning could be needed. Veterinarians will be able to remove tartar and polish the tooth surface, although this is not the first-line treatment because the pet needs to be put under general anaesthesia.^1-5 When anaesthesia is not used, only tartar visible above the gumline can be removed, which unfortunately is not enough to prevent all dental diseases.⁷ 

FAQs, common myths and mistakes in pet dental care

Do pets really need dental care?

Many people believe that animals naturally maintain their teeth, but domestic pets don’t chew bones or tough foods as their wild counterparts do. This is why regular dental care is necessary to prevent health issues.^1-5

Is bad breath normal in pets?

No. In many cases, bad breath is often a sign of dental disease. While a mild odour is common, a strong or foul smell indicates a problem.

Does dry food alone prevent tartar?

While dry kibble helps slightly, it’s not enough to fully prevent tartar buildup. Regular brushing and dental care are still needed.

How often should I brush my pet’s teeth?

Ideally, daily brushing is best, but even 2-3 times a week can make a difference.

What if my pet refuses to let me brush their teeth?

Teeth cleaning does not come naturally to pets. Like every training method, start slow, and use flavoured pet toothpaste. Alternatives like dental wipes, water additives, and dental chews will also help with dental care. 

Are human toothpaste and toothbrushes safe for pets?

No, human toothpaste contains ingredients like fluoride and xylitol, which are toxic to pets. Always use pet-specific products. If you accidentally use human toothpaste, contact your vet immediately. 

When should my pet have their first dental check-up?

As early as one year old for small breeds and two years old for larger breeds. Having dental checks among regular annual check-ups is recommended.

Can dental disease affect my pet’s overall health?

Yes, just like it does in humans. Untreated dental infections can spread to the heart, kidneys, and liver, causing serious health problems.

Do all pets need professional dental cleanings?

Not all, but many do, especially older pets or those prone to tartar buildup. Your vet can advise based on your pet’s condition.

Summary

Just like us, dogs and cats can suffer from tartar buildup, which can lead to bad breath, gum disease, tooth loss, and even serious health problems affecting vital organs.

Tartar forms when plaque (a sticky film of bacteria from leftover food) hardens on their teeth. The good news? It is quite manageable. Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly—ideally every day—with pet-specific products is one of the best ways to prevent tartar. If brushing isn’t working out, dental wipes, oral rinses, and chews can also help. Dry kibble and certain dental diets can support cleaner teeth, too.

If your pet already has tartar, at-home care can slow it down and even improve the condition but professional cleanings from your vet might be needed, especially in more advanced cases. Keep an eye out for signs like bad breath, red or bleeding gums, and trouble eating.

Myths like “pets don’t need dental care” or “bad breath is normal” can delay proper treatment. The truth is, a little daily attention to their teeth can go a long way. With regular care and vet checkups, your pet can enjoy a healthier mouth and a happier, longer life.