Strong and strong teeth are one of the distinctive features of a dog. Good dental health is extremely important for its overall well-being.

More than 80% of pets over the age of three have dental problems. These are probably some of the most common diseases, as almost every dog has tartar. And where there is tartar, gingivitis and periodontal disease can occur, which in turn can lead to a number of other health problems.

In this article, we will look at what tartar is, the causes of its appearance and the harm of poisoning it. You will find out how to take care of your dog’s dental health in the best way and what preventive measures you can take to protect your dear friend.

What is tartar?

Tartar is a hard mineral deposit that forms on the teeth and gum line. It is made up of bacteria, saliva and food particles that accumulate over time. Tartar is the result of the mineralization of dental plaque, which is a sticky layer of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If it is not removed in a timely manner, it can harden and turn into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove.

Is there a difference between tartar in humans and dogs?

There is not much difference between tartar in humans and dogs, as they are caused by the same factors. However, dogs are more prone to gaining weight because of their eating habits and the common lack of dental care and hygiene.

Causes of tartar

Some of the common causes of tartar buildup in dogs are:

Poor dental hygiene

In both humans and dogs, calcification of dental plaque is quite often a consequence of poor dental hygiene or lack thereof. Dogs that do not receive regular dental care are more prone to tartar buildup.

Diet

Diet is a major factor that can affect the accumulation of tartar. Foods high in carbohydrates, sugars, and starches can increase the likelihood of plaque formation.

Some of the foods your dog should avoid are:

• Foods high in carbohydrates and sugar;
• Soft and sticky foods that stick to the teeth;
• Human food

We’ve all heard the myth that feeding kibble keeps your dog’s teeth clean. This belief seems to be based on the principle that when a dog snorts, the pieces of granules will scrape the teeth because of their abrasive nature. There are no science-based studies to support this claim.

Can kibble actually clean a dog’s teeth?

The short answer is: NO, of course not.

Although it is crunchy, granulated food sticks to the dog’s teeth like any other food. The assumption that it cleans teeth is tantamount to the claim that a berry or chip can clean human teeth.

Granules are processed food and therefore can contain substances that actually fuel inflammation in the body, including in the tissues of the mouth. They contain starch and break down into sugar, which contributes to the appearance of plaque and bacteria.

All the conveniences and “benefits” that kibble guarantee do not justify the consequences for the health of your pet, which appear when feeding low-quality food, which does not have good bioavailability and can lead to allergies and other diseases.

The overall health of the pet is the most important factor when choosing food. A complete diet improves the microflora and promotes an overall healthier immune system, which reduces dental infections.

When looking for food for your dog, choose the best for their health – unprocessed, balanced food. Fresh, healthy food provides better breath and does not stick to the teeth. A high-quality, complete food that is low in carbohydrates and sugars can prevent tartar buildup.

Breed

Some dog breeds are more prone to tartar formation than others. Those who have small jaws or misaligned teeth are more prone and require special care.

Age

As they age, dogs’ immune systems weaken, making them more susceptible to tartar buildup and other dental problems.

Threats of tartar

If left untreated, tartar can cause a number of health problems in dogs.

Some of the most common threats from tartar are:

Gum disease

Tartar buildup can cause gum disease in dogs. It is a bacterial infection that affects gum tissue and can cause inflammation, redness, swelling, and even tooth loss.

Dental caries

Tartar buildup can also cause tooth decay in dogs. Caries occurs as a result of bacteria that destroy tooth enamel.

Bad breath

The bacteria that cause tartar buildup can also cause bad breath and bad persistent breath.

Pain and discomfort

Tartar buildup can cause pain and discomfort in dogs. Hard deposits can irritate the gums and cause discomfort when chewing or biting.

Systemic health problems

The accumulation of tartar in dogs has been linked to systemic health problems, such as heart, kidney and liver diseases. Tartar bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect other organs in the body, leading to serious health problems.

Preventive measures

To take care of your dog’s tartar and avoid it, here are some tips:

Brush his teeth regularly

One of the sure ways to prevent dental diseases, gingivitis and periodontitis is to brush and clean your teeth daily after eating.

Choose healthy and balanced food

Have you heard of the BARF method of eating?

It is raw and complete food, in the same shape, balance and quantity that our pets would receive in their natural environment. The BARF diet contains all the necessary ingredients and nutrients – meat, organs, bones, fruits, vegetables and oils.

Check out our BARF menus here.

Raw food maintains good oral hygiene and low plaque levels. It is a prevention against the formation of tartar, unlike foods high in carbohydrates and starch. If your friend consumes mostly raw menus, the bacteria in his mouth will decrease and his breath will be fresher and more pleasant.

Provide him with natural and natural treats to chew on

Chewing is extremely important and is a natural behavior for dogs. Wild carnivores chew bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage that help remove tooth debris. Chewing on natural, dehydrated treats can help clean your dog’s teeth and gums by removing accumulated plaque and tartar. It can also strengthen the jaw muscles and reduce the risk of dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay.

In short, if you’re looking for the best for your dog, avoid kibble! Dental health and overall health are inextricably linked. Choose a suitable and healthy diet for your dog, provide him with natural treats to chew on and apply good dental hygiene practices at home.

If you want to find out more about the secret of white teeth in dogs, learn more here:

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