How to Remove Tartar From Dogs' Teeth Safely and Effectively

Tartar buildup in your dog’s teeth can cause very serious ailments, such as gum disease, cavities, and infections that can spread throughout the entire body. As a caring and concerned pet owner, you have to address this issue with scientific reasoning and compassion to improve your dog’s dental health. Although tartar can only be removed from your dog’s teeth through a professional dental cleaning procedure, there are a number of home remedies you can use to prevent buildup.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to remove tartar from dogs’ teeth, when to call the vet, and share tips and tricks on how to prevent tartar buildup. We’ll also talk about home care, what tartar is, and the best tools for removing tartar from your dog’s teeth.

What is Tartar vs Plaque in Dogs?

Dogs, like humans, also develop plaque or tartar buildup in their teeth. If left unchecked, plaque and tartar can cause soreness, discomfort, or even infections due to excessive buildup.

What Is Plaque Buildup?

Plaque is a soft, pale layer that forms on the gums and the tooth surface. This layer always harbors bacteria; however, you can easily remove it by brushing before it hardens into tartar.

According to a study by Hennet et al. (2006), published in Research in Veterinary Science, plaque forms on a dog's teeth within hours after eating, and can be seen after 24 hours. When plaque remains on your pet’s teeth, bacteria multiply rapidly, leading to tartar buildup, gum inflammation, bad breath, and early dental issues.

What Is Tartar? (Dental Calculus)

When you don't remove plaque from your dog's teeth, minerals in saliva harden it into tartar, also called dental calculus. Tartar forms within just a few days and appears as yellow‑brown deposits on the surface of a dog’s teeth, especially near the dog’s gumline, and can cause bad breath.

Once tartar forms, brushing alone can't remove it. Tartar accumulation creates a rough surface that attracts even more plaque and oral bacteria, accelerating buildup.

The Importance of Removing Plaque and Tartar

Plaque and tartar harbor bacteria that trigger gum disease, tooth decay, and dog periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is the most common dental disease in dogs, often caused by plaque and tartar buildup. Untreated periodontal disease is painful and often leads to tooth loss.

Plaque and tartar also provide bacteria with a pathway into the bloodstream, contributing to infections of the heart, liver, and kidneys. According to the American Veterinary Dental College, most dogs show signs of dental disease by age three. That's why early intervention is important to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.

Preventive Care for Your Dogs' Oral Health

Preventive care is the most effective way to control tartar buildup and protect your dog’s oral health long term.

Start by Establishing a Daily Routine

You can keep your dog's teeth clean simply by brushing them every day. Use a dog-specific toothbrush and dog toothpaste. Human toothpaste is unsafe for dogs and can cause serious illness. Start gradually by allowing your dog to sample the toothpaste, then gently prying his mouth open. Eventually, your dog can learn to accept daily brushing.

Ensure you have the best dog dental health products to help you establish a daily routine and keep your furry friend’s teeth clean and gums healthy.

Nutrition and Dental Diets

Certain diets help reduce plaque formation by using kibble texture and mineral‑binding agents that limit tartar formation. For instance, chewing on appropriately sized raw bones provides natural abrasion that helps remove tartar while stimulating the gums. These diets can support overall dental health but should complement, not replace, brushing.

Supplements and Natural Adjuncts

Natural alternatives like North Atlantic seaweed powder can be used gradually to help reduce plaque and tartar. Research published in the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry by Gawor et al. (2021) shows that specially formulated dental chews packed with this natural ingredient can significantly reduce plaque, calculus, and bleeding gums.

Supporting dental health with vet-approved supplements is important. That's why we've formulated dental health supplements, including the Gut Health Bundle and 360 Support Bundle, to:

• Support your dog's dental hygiene
  
• Help flush out bad breath
  
• Support healthy gums and teeth
  
• Aid gut and immune function
  
• Minimize age-related decline and inflammation
  

Regular Dental Checkups

Regular trips to the vet, even with excellent in-home care, are a good idea for dental health. Most vets recommend that your dog come in annually for dental cleaning and check-ups.

At-Home Dental Care to Reduce Plaque and Surface Tartar

Home care for your dog’s teeth can’t replace professional cleaning, but it's very effective in reducing plaque and tartar buildup.

Brush Your Dog's Teeth Daily

Teeth brushing physically removes plaque before it hardens. Use enzymatic dog toothpaste to effectively remove plaque and fight plaque‑causing bacteria. Never use human toothpaste for dogs, as it contains harmful ingredients such as xylitol. Dog-specific toothpaste is formulated to be safe if swallowed and contains enzymes that help with plaque removal before it hardens into tartar.

Pair brushing with our Prodenta supplement, a dental powder formulated to flush out bad doggy breath, support healthy gums, reduce plaque and tartar, and protect your dog's teeth daily.

Dental Wipes and Gels

Dental wipes and gels are useful for dogs that resist brushing. They help remove plaque from the surface of your pet’s teeth and reduce oral bacteria when brushing isn’t possible.

Water Additives and Oral Rinses

Water additives and dental sprays reduce plaque formation by limiting bacterial growth. A study by Gawor et al. (2023) published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that water additives containing pomegranate extract significantly reduced plaque and tartar accumulation over 30 days.

Dental Chews, Toys, and Bones

Dental chews or toys approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) can help mechanically remove plaque through chewing. Enzymatic dental treats contain enzymes that break down the components of plaque on the teeth while your dog enjoys a chewing session.

Dental chews and treats can help clean your dog's teeth and gums while providing a tasty treat. For instance, we specially formulate our Fresh Breathies Dental Health Chews to satisfy your dog's need to chew while promoting their oral health.

Raw bones can also help control tartar buildup when selected appropriately. Research by Marx et al. (2016), in the Australian Veterinary Journal, found that raw bones reduced tartar by more than 80 percent in controlled studies. That said, use chews, toys, bones, and dental sticks to supplement brushing, but never replace it.

Water Flossers

Water flossers can be a gentle, considerate way to rinse food particles from a dog's mouth when used properly and can help ease oral discomfort. They are indeed useful additions to a dog’s dental routine for plaque control, but they don't remove hardened tartar. Combine them with the other forms of care mentioned above, and ensure you take your dog to the vet if they have bad breath, yellowish-brown staining, or bleeding gums. 

For more expert advice, read our guide on dog gums bleeding to learn the causes and risks, and how to keep your pup’s mouth fresh and clean.

When Professional Dental Cleaning Is Necessary

Once plaque hardens into tartar, only professional dental cleaning can safely remove it. Professional cleanings help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and many oral health issues that are invisible to the naked eye.

What Professional Cleanings Entail

Professional dental cleanings for dogs, typically performed under general anesthesia, are required for safety and efficiency. The veterinarian will then scale above and below the gum line, polish the teeth, and take dental X-rays to evaluate roots and bone health.

Signs Your Dog Needs Vet Care

Seek veterinary care if you notice:

• Persistent bad breath.
  
• Bleeding gums or reddening of your dog’s gums.
  
• Oral pain or oral discomfort.
  
• Loose teeth or visible tartar buildup.
  
• Excessive drooling or difficulty eating.
  

Safety and Frequency

Veterinarians typically recommend professional dental cleanings at least once per year. Small-breed dogs and dogs with existing dental issues may require more frequent professional cleanings. Regardless of the breed, your pup needs regular dental cleaning to detect and prevent dental disease from becoming severe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Risks To At‑Home Tartar Scraping?

Yes. Attempting to scrape tartar at home can damage enamel, injure your dog’s gums, and introduce bacteria below the gum line. Unlike human teeth, dog teeth have different anatomy, and improper tools or techniques can cause oral pain and long‑term damage. For safety reasons, only a trained veterinary professional should perform tartar removal procedures under proper conditions.

How Often Should I Brush My Pet’s Teeth?

Daily tooth brushing is the most effective way to remove plaque, slow tartar formation, and support long‑term tartar prevention. Plaque begins forming on a dog’s teeth within hours after eating, so infrequent brushing allows plaque to harden into tartar very quickly. Even if daily brushing isn’t possible, brushing at least three to four times per week can still help prevent tartar buildup and protect your dog’s oral health.

When Should Dental Care Begin for Dogs?

Begin oral health care routines right from puppyhood. Start gentle brushing from an early age to accustom your pup to having its mouth cleaned.

Do Dental Chews Really Help With Tartar Prevention?

Of course, dental chews can help. They work best when used alongside brushing. Chewing is a self-cleaning process that acts as a gentle abrasive, helping remove plaque from the surfaces of your dog’s teeth. A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry by Gawor et al. (2021) established that specially formulated dental chews can significantly reduce plaque, calculus, and gum bleeding when used consistently. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, as they have demonstrated benefits in controlling dog tartar.

Can Tartar Cause Serious Health Problems in Dogs?

Yes. Tartar buildup provides a haven for bacteria that affect your pet's oral health, leading to gum disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and infections. The bacteria found in plaque and tartar can enter the bloodstream and cause infections in organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Are Water Additives Effective in Fighting Plaque and Tartar Buildup on Dogs’ Teeth?

Water additives don't remove hardened tartar, but they can help prevent plaque buildup and slow tartar formation. Research published by Gawor et al. (2023) in Frontiers in Veterinary Science showed that water additives containing plant extracts significantly reduced plaque and calculus accumulation when used consistently. However, these products are most effective when used as part of a broader dental care routine that includes brushing and dental chews.

When Should I Schedule a Professional Dental Cleaning for My Dog?

Veterinarians generally recommend professional dental cleaning at least once per year. You should schedule an appointment sooner if you notice persistent bad breath, visible dog tartar, bleeding gums, oral discomfort, or difficulty eating. Regular professional cleanings help prevent tartar buildup, detect dental issues early, and reduce the risk of developing periodontal disease.

How Long Does Professional Dental Cleaning for Dogs Take?

Common dog dental cleanings can last around 45-90 minutes, depending on how much tartar has accumulated. This includes scaling, polishing, and dental X-rays, which veterinarians use to examine what’s going on beneath the gumline. Dogs typically go home the same day after recovering from anesthesia.

Can Certain Dog Breeds Be More Prone to Tartar Buildup?

Yes. Smaller dogs tend to accumulate both plaque and tartar easily, as their teeth are packed tightly in their mouths, leaving limited space for the jaw to open wide enough for teeth brushing. Genetics, diet, and saliva composition also affect how quickly tartar builds up. This is why small dogs require more frequent at‑home dental care and regular veterinary monitoring to maintain good oral health.

Conclusion

Maintaining your dog's oral health requires commitment, education, and prompt veterinary care. Understanding how plaque and tartar form, maintaining a brushing routine, using dental chews and wipes correctly, and visiting a professional for regular cleanings can help you prevent tartar formation and protect your dog against toothaches and disease.

At Pup Labs, we believe that dental care is a foundation of a well-rounded lifestyle. Explore our dental health solutions to support your dog’s teeth cleaning routine and help reduce tartar buildup safely and effectively.

References

• Gawor, J. P., Reiter, A. M., Jodkowski, K., Niedziółka, M., & Gawor, J. (2023). A water additive with pomegranate can reduce dental plaque and calculus accumulation in dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10, 1241197.
  
• Gawor, J. P., Reiter, A. M., Jodkowski, K., Niedziółka, M., Rząsa, A., & Gawor, J. (2021). Comparison of a vegetable-based dental chew to two other oral care products in dogs: Part 2. Journal of Veterinary Dentistry.
  
• Hennet, P., Servet, E., & Rovira, J. (2006). Evaluation of the Logan & Boyce plaque index for the study of dental plaque accumulation in dogs. Research in Veterinary Science, 80(3), 285–290.
  
• Marx, F. R., Pokorny, D., Back, A., Greune, I., & Sinn, L. (2016). Raw beef bones as chewing items to reduce dental calculus in Beagle dogs. Australian Veterinary Journal, 94(3), 79–82.