Toy breeds such as Poodles , Maltese , Pomeranians and Chihuahuas have an increased tendency to develop dental disease due to their small mouths and reluctance to eat crunchy dry food. They also tend to be less eager to chew and grind their teeth on dental chews. For toy breeds, begin tooth brushing from a young age if possible. Despite being small, their little mouths are usually not malformed like brachycephalic breeds, so it's still possible to brush their teeth at home. A dental scale & polish is also a good idea every 6-12 months, and maintaining on a dental care diet may be ideal.

Flat faced (brachycephalic) breeds

Flat faced ( brachycephalic ) breeds such as Pugs , Boxers , Bulldogs , Cavalier King Charles Spaniel , and French Bulldogs are highly prone to dental disease due to their malformed face and jaw. Their pushed-in face may be endearing, but it also sets her up for periodontal disease. Malocclusions and crowded teeth are common, which allow for food entrapment and bacteria buildup. The disfigured shape of brachycephalic mouths and muzzles cause a number of problems: It can be extraordinarily difficult to brush their teeth Dental diets may not be as effective, as the kibble cannot encase the entire tooth during chewing Dental chews and bones are not as effective, as the scraping action does not occur on teeth in an abnormal position For brachycephalic breeds, a scale and polish procedure at your vet is essential every 6 months. At home treatments are still recommended in conjunction, including tooth brushing, dental diets, and chews.

Is human toothpaste safe for dogs? Title

No, human toothpaste should never be used on dogs. Most human pastes contain fluoride and xylitol (an artificial sweetener), both of which are toxic to dogs if swallowed. Additionally, dogs don't know how to "spit," so they need a pet-specific enzymatic toothpaste that is safe to ingest and comes in flavours they actually enjoy, like beef or poultry.

How can I tell if my dog has dental pain?

Dogs are masters at hiding discomfort, but there are subtle signs to watch for. You might notice them dropping food while eating, chewing on only one side of their mouth, or pawing at their face. Other red flags include bleeding gums, excessive drooling, or a sudden reluctance to play with tug toys. If your dog's breath is particularly foul, it’s usually a sign that bacteria are already at work.

Do dental chews really work as well as brushing?

While dental chews are a fantastic tool for mechanical cleaning, they are most effective when used as a supplement to brushing rather than a total replacement. Brushing allows you to reach the gum line and the inner surfaces of the teeth more effectively. Think of dental chews like "chewing gum" for dogs - helpful for maintenance, but not a substitute for the "manual scrub" of a toothbrush.

Why does my dog need anaesthesia for a dental clean?

Unlike humans, dogs won't sit still and "open wide" for a scaling tool, especially when cleaning under the gum line where the most damage occurs. Anaesthesia ensures the procedure is pain-free and stress-free for your pet. It also allows the vet to perform a thorough inspection, take X-rays if needed, and safely remove all bacteria without the risk of the dog inhaling water or debris during the process.

Are there any natural ways to help clean my dog’s teeth?

Yes, certain natural options can assist with oral hygiene. Crunchy, raw vegetables like carrots or celery can help mechanically scrape away soft plaque. Some seaweed supplements (specifically Ascophyllum nodosum ) have also been scientifically shown to help soften tartar and reduce plaque buildup through the dog's saliva. However, these should always be used alongside a primary cleaning method like brushing.

Last Updated: 22/01/2026

How To Prevent & Remove Tartar From Your Dogs Teeth

Is your dog's breath less than fresh? Learn the difference between plaque and tartar, discover the best tooth-brushing techniques, and find out which breeds need extra dental care.

Author: Dr Carla Paszkowski BVSc (Hons)

Reading Time: 10 minutes - short read

small dog breed getting their teeth examined

A happy, healthy dog is often defined by a wagging tail and a wet nose, but their pearly whites are just as important. Dental hygiene is a cornerstone of overall wellbeing, yet it’s an area that often gets overlooked until "doggy breath" becomes a bit too much to bear.

Plaque and tartar are the silent culprits behind many common canine health issues. While they might start as a simple film on the teeth, they can quickly progress to painful gums or even more serious systemic health concerns. This guide breaks down exactly what is happening inside your dog's mouth and provides practical, stress-free ways to keep their oral health on track. From crunchy carrots to professional cleans, here is how to ensure your best friend stays smiling.

Understanding the difference between plaque and tartar
How to fix bad breath in dogs
Step-by-step guide to brushing your dog's teeth
Choosing effective dental chews and treats
Dietary solutions and natural remedies for oral health
Why professional veterinary dental cleans are essential
Breeds with the highest risk of dental issues
FAQs

Understanding the difference between plaque and tartar

gloved hands lifting dogs lip to examine teeth

What is Plaque?

Plaque is a soft, sticky, gummy-like substance that forms on the teeth after a meal. Within 24 hours, plaque starts to harden when it mixes with salts present in the saliva. As the plaque continues to build up and mineralise (specifically, calcify), it eventually transforms into tartar.¹

What is Tartar?

Tartar, also called calculus, is a rough, porous, cement-like substance that accumulates above and below the gum line. It is the end result of plaque that has been left to sit on the tooth's surface. Plaque harbours bacteria that induces an immune response and inflicts damage to oral tissue.²

The health risks associated with tartar are significant. Tartar harms the teeth and gums in two ways:

Tartar provides a rough medium for bacteria to grow and flourish in the mouth. These bacteria cause gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), which leads to bleeding gums and pain. Gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease, involving the tooth root and even bone, and can cause gum recession, exposure of the sensitive enamel-free part of the tooth, and tooth loss.
The bacteria living on the tartar can be absorbed into the blood stream and deposited in vital organs such as the heart, kidneys and liver. This can lead to decreased organ function and chronic illness.

How to identify plaque and tartar

Plaque is a whitish coating on the tooth and can be difficult to see in your dog's mouth with the naked eye. In your own mouth, plaque causes your teeth to feel 'fuzzy' when you haven't brushed your teeth for a while.

Tartar is often not easily visible until it is severe, but usually appears as a beige, yellowish or brown substance along the gum line. It is usually visible first on the outer surfaces of the upper molars and canines.

Signs of gingivitis include a reddish tinge to the gumline, and is also usually visible first on the sides of the back upper molars and canines.

DID YOU KNOW? Bad breath (halitosis) is a common sign of dental disease. Contrary to popular belief, 'doggy breath' is not normal - smelly breath is just as concerning as it is in humans and can indicate tartar buildup and dental disease.

How to fix bad breath in dogs

shiba inu wearing pink shower cap and having teeth brushed

As tempting as it can be to jump straight into treating your dog's dental disease at home without a vet, it's vital to first determine the severity of your dog's dental disease. Home remedies are only good for removal of plaque and prevention of tartar forming, but not for treating established dental disease. Many clinics offer free dental checks with a vet nurse, so checking with a professional shouldn't break the bank!

If your dog has gingivitis, no home treatment or dental chew can fix it; your dog will need a scale and polish at the vet. This involves using dental equipment - the same equipment that human dentists use - to scale off tartar and polish the tooth surface, while under anaesthesia. Your vet will be able to get under the gumline if there is inflammation and really clean out any plaque and bacteria to ensure your pet's teeth are sparkling white and healthy.

Once your vet has confirmed that your dog does not have active dental disease or gingivitis, you can implement at-home remedies for removing plaque on your dog's teeth.

Step-by-step guide to brushing your dog's teeth

Veterinary dentists recommend brushing your dog's teeth with a toothbrush daily to prevent dental disease, and it makes sense; after all, we brush our own teeth twice daily to prevent plaque and tartar build up. Daily tooth brushing has been shown to reduce plaque by up to 37.4% and an calculus up to 80.2% compared with dogs with non-brushed teeth. ⁴

It's important to choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your dog. A larger dog might require a long-handled doggy toothbrush to reach the back molars, whereas a smaller dog should be fine with a finger brush. Always be sure to use a dog friendly toothpaste, as human ones are not suitable.

How to brush your dog's teeth? It can take a while to get your dog used to having their teeth brushed. It's best to start out slowly with short sessions to get them used to the taste of the toothpaste and sensation of the brushing.

Choose a tasty dog toothpaste - there are many flavours available, including chicken, beef, cheese, and mint.
Allow your dog to lick the toothpaste off the toothbrush. This will help them associate the toothbrush as something pleasant.
Run your fingers along the sides of your dog's mouth to get them used to it being touched.
Attempt brushing the teeth at the front of the mouth - lift your dog's lip and give their canine tooth a gentle brush in a circular motion
After a few sessions cleaning only the front canines, lift your dog's lip at the back of their mouth and brush their molars, too
Consider giving your dog a treat once you've finished the tooth brushing session, so they learn to associate the process with positive experiences

Although it may seem daunting at first, with a little patience and encouragement most dogs can be trained to accept toothbrushing as part of their daily routine.

For more information, read through our detailed guide to How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth.

Choosing effective dental chews and treats

golden retriever looking at dental treat

Dental treats can do a lot for your dog's dental health, if your dog uses them correctly.

How do dental chews work? Dental chews work by scraping against the tooth to mechanically remove tartar and plaque. If your dog wolfs down a treat quickly, this scraping action won't be achieved and there will be no dental benefit whatsoever.

The longer your dog takes to chew and grind their teeth on a dental chew or treat, the more benefit there is likely to be. For best results, be sure to follow the guidelines on the packet for the correct size and feeding frequency, and be mindful that treats will add to your pet's daily calorie count.

Vet Picks

Oravet

Greenies

Whimzees

VeggieDent FR3SH

Prozym

Dietary solutions and supplements for oral health

Dental diets

For dogs with a history or increased risk of dental disease, dental diets might be the way to go. Therapeutic diets such as Hill's Prescription Diet Canine t/d Dental Care and Royal Canin Veterinary Dental Diet are clinically proven to reduce gingivitis by mechanically scrubbing the teeth as your dog chews.

Retail, non-prescription dental diets can be beneficial as a preventative measure, to reduce the build up of plaque.

Supplements

While they won't reverse dental disease that is already present in your dog's mouth, water additives and plaque control supplements are a simple way to help freshen your dog's breath and can even help to slow the growth of bacteria and formation of plaque. When using water additives your dog's water bowls should be changed daily and with each refill you will need to add more of the solution.

Recommended brands include Aquadent, Prozym Dental Solution, Plaqueoff and Vetnex.

Safe fruits and vegetables for dental care? There are some fruits and veggies that you can give your dog to help clean their teeth - and just like dental chews, the crunchier and more time-consuming, the better. The most popular option is a carrot, as it's crunchy and can help scrape plaque off the tooth as your dog chews.

Does kelp... help? You may have heard that adding a seaweed supplement to your pet's meal can help their teeth to reduce the amount of plaque that can build up on their teeth. Seaweed contains Ascophyllum nodosum; a type of algae that is believed to have anti-adhesive and antibacterial properties that combat the mineralisation of plaque. Somewhat surprisingly, this is actually supported by science - one study from Poland found that supplementing with Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed was found to slow the progression of periodontal disease.³

Why professional veterinary dental cleans are essential

To help keep your dog's mouth in tip top condition, a dental check up at your vet is recommended every 6 months - or sooner, if you notice any signs such as reddened gums or bad breath.

Many vet clinics offer free dental checks with a qualified vet nurse, which means that a check up shouldn't cost you anything. A dental check will include an initial check inside the pet's mouth looking at their teeth and gums, as well as a discussion about recommended dental care.

How often does my dog require a dental scale & polish?

A scale and polish once a year is recommended for dogs by msot veterinary clinics. A scale and polish involves using dental equipment - the same equipment that human dentists use - to scale off tartar and polish the tooth surface, while under anaesthesia. Your vet will be able to get under the gumline if there is inflammation and really clean out any plaque and bacteria. Anaesthesia or heavy sedation is essential to allow thorough cleaning and examination of the teeth, particularly of areas under the gumline.

Pet dentistry should only be performed in a veterinary surgery to ensure all the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned and assessed. Be sure to steer clear of people offering anaesthesia free or 'gentle dentals'.

Breeds with the highest risk of dental issues

A number of dog breeds are particularly prone to dental disease and require special care. These include:

FAQs

Ultimately, your dog's dental health is just as important as your own. With a combination of tooth brushing, dental chews, and regular check ups, your dog's mouth should be clean and healthy. If you are able to stay on top of your pet's dental care for good, you will be setting your dog up for a much healthier, happier and long life.

References

White DJ. Dental calculus: recent insights into occurrence, formation, prevention, removal and oral health effects of supragingival and subgingival deposits. Eur J Oral Sci. 1997 Oct;105(5 Pt 2):508-22. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9395117/
Stepaniuk K. 2019. Periodontology. In: Lobprise H B and Dodd J R, editors. Wiggs's veterinary dentistry principles and practice. New York (NY): Lippincott-Raven; p. 81-108. https://cir.nii.ac.jp/crid/1130000797996079872
Gawor J, Jank M, Jodkowska K, Klim E, Svensson UK. 2018. Effects of Edible Treats Containing Ascophyllum nodosum on the Oral Health of Dogs: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Single-Center Study. Front Vet Sci. 2018; 5: 168. Published online 2018 Jul 27. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6080642/
Harvey CE, Serfilippi L, Barnvos D. Effect of frequency of brushing teeth on plaque and calculus accumulation and gingivitis in dogs. J Vet Dent. (2015) 32:16-21. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26197686/

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History

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Thu 22 Jan 2026

Edited by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)

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About the Author

Dr Carla Paszkowski BVSc (Hons)

Veterinarian

Dr. Carla graduated from the University of Queensland in 2013 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science and worked for a number of years in small animal clinics across South East Queensland. While Carla enjoys most facets of clinical veterinary work, she holds a special passion for feline medicine, pocket pets, and nutrition.