5 Serious Diseases Associated with Dog Tartar
For first-time dog owners, it's easy to focus on feeding, walking, and playtime while dental care often gets overlooked.
However, neglecting your dog’s teeth can lead to tartar buildup, which poses serious health risks that go far beyond bad breath.
In this guide, we explore five critical reasons why ignoring tartar can be dangerous for your dog.
Backed by veterinary advice, the latest research, and real-life owner experiences, this article offers the knowledge and tools you need to protect your pet's health.
1. Tartar Causes Periodontal Disease, Leading to Systemic Infections
Tartar starts as plaque—a sticky film of bacteria on your dog’s teeth. When not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and leads to gingivitis.
If left untreated, gingivitis can escalate to periodontitis, where the supporting tissues and bone are destroyed.
Health consequences:
Chronic pain
Tooth loss
Bacteria entering the bloodstream (bacteremia)
Increased risk of kidney, liver, and heart diseases
Expert insight: Dr. Chad Lothamer, a board-certified veterinary dentist, explains that the inflammation from dental disease doesn't just harm the mouth—it affects the whole body.
"The body's immune response can cause tissue destruction, allowing bacteria to spread beyond the oral cavity."
Symptoms of periodontal disease in dogs: Bad breath
Red or bleeding gums
Drooling
Loose or missing teeth
Difficulty eating
2. Dental Bacteria Can Trigger Heart Disease
Dogs with untreated tartar are at risk for endocarditis, a dangerous infection of the heart's inner lining.
Bacteria from infected gums can migrate through the bloodstream and attach to heart valves.
Veterinary data: According to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), dogs with moderate to severe dental disease are up to six times more likely to develop endocarditis.
Warning signs:
Lethargy
Coughing
Labored breathing
Collapse or fainting
Heart disease is often irreversible and may require lifelong medication. Early dental care can prevent this.
3. Severe Oral Infections May Affect the Brain
Though less common, neurological complications can arise from chronic dental infections.
In severe cases, bacteria can reach the brain and spinal cord, especially in dogs with weakened immune systems.
Potential issues:
Brain abscesses
Seizures
Behavioral changes
Some owners report improvements in irritability, anxiety, and confusion after professional dental treatment.
This shows how closely oral health is tied to your dog's overall well-being.
4. Tartar Can Cause Chronic Pain and Behavioral Changes
Dogs often hide their pain, making it difficult to recognize dental discomfort.
But chronic oral pain can lead to noticeable behavioral changes.
What to watch for:
Refusing hard food or treats
Chewing on one side
Avoiding chew toys
Becoming withdrawn or aggressive Real owner experience: Many pet parents have reported improved mood, energy, and playfulness after dental cleanings.
Dogs may stop "acting out" simply because the pain is gone.
5. Eating Difficulties Lead to Malnutrition
Painful teeth or gums can make chewing difficult, leading to reduced food intake and nutritional deficiencies.
Risks include:
Weight loss
Vitamin deficiencies
Weakened immune function
Growth issues in puppies
Maintaining oral health ensures that your dog eats comfortably and gets the nutrients they need to stay healthy.
Prevention and Treatment: Keep Tartar Under Control
Daily Brushing
Use dog-specific toothpaste and a soft brush. Start slowly and turn it into a daily routine, ideally after a walk or play session.
Dental Chews and Toys
Look for products with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal, which are proven to reduce plaque and tartar.
Dental Diets
Some kibble is specially formulated to reduce tartar. Ask your vet about switching to a dental-support diet.
Annual Vet Cleanings
Professional cleanings under anesthesia may be necessary for stubborn tartar or signs of disease.
Your vet may also recommend blood tests to ensure safety.
Monitor Symptoms
Keep an eye on your dog's breath, eating habits, and behavior. Early signs of dental trouble are easier to treat.
Final Thoughts: Puppy tartar
Tartar might seem like a minor issue, but it’s often the starting point for major health problems in dogs.
Preventing tartar buildup is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your dog's overall well-being.
By understanding these risks and taking proactive steps, you’re not just avoiding bad breath—you're helping your dog live a longer, healthier, and happier life.
Tip: Schedule a dental checkup during your dog’s annual vet visit, and brush their teeth just like you'd brush your own.
Top 10 Questions About Dog Tartar
1. What is tartar, and how does it form on my dog's teeth?
Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened accumulation that develops when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—mineralizes on your dog's teeth.
This process begins when plaque is not regularly removed through brushing or chewing activities, leading to its hardening into tartar within approximately 48 hours.
2. Why is tartar buildup dangerous for dogs?
Tartar buildup can lead to periodontal disease, which involves inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
If left untreated, this condition can result in tooth loss and may allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver.
3. How can I tell if my dog has tartar buildup or dental issues?
Common signs of dental problems in dogs include:
Bad breath
Difficulty chewing
Pawing at the mouth
Excessive drooling
Inflamed or bleeding gums
Visible yellow or brown deposits on the teeth
If you observe any of these symptoms, it's advisable to consult your veterinarian for a dental evaluation.
4. How often should I brush my dog's teeth to prevent tartar?
Ideally, you should brush your dog's teeth daily using toothpaste formulated specifically for dogs.
Regular brushing is the most effective method to remove plaque before it can harden into tartar.
5. Are there alternatives to brushing for controlling tartar buildup?
While daily brushing is optimal, there are additional methods to help control tartar buildup, including:
Providing dental chews and toys designed to reduce plaque
Feeding dental health diets approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)
Using water additives formulated to promote oral health
These alternatives can complement brushing but should not replace regular dental care routines.
6. Can professional dental cleanings remove tartar from my dog's teeth?
Yes, professional dental cleanings performed by a veterinarian can effectively remove tartar from both above and below the gumline.
These cleanings are typically conducted under anesthesia to ensure a thorough and safe procedure.
7. Is anesthesia necessary for my dog's dental cleaning?
Anesthesia is generally required for dental cleanings to allow the veterinarian to perform a comprehensive cleaning and examination without causing stress or discomfort to your dog.
It enables safe scaling of tartar beneath the gumline and thorough assessment of dental health.
8. How often should my dog have a professional dental cleaning?
The frequency of professional dental cleanings depends on factors such as your dog's age, breed, diet, and at-home dental care routine.
Many veterinarians recommend annual cleanings, but some dogs may require more frequent visits.
Your veterinarian can provide guidance tailored to your dog's specific needs.
9. Are certain dog breeds more prone to tartar buildup?
Yes, small and toy breeds are particularly susceptible to tartar buildup due to the size and arrangement of their teeth, which can lead to overcrowding and increased plaque accumulation.
Breeds such as Dachshunds, Yorkshire Terriers, and Poodles may require more diligent dental care.
10. Can diet affect my dog's dental health?
Absolutely. Feeding your dog a dental health diet can help reduce the formation of plaque and tartar.
Some specially formulated kibbles are designed to mechanically clean the teeth during chewing, and certain additives can chemically reduce plaque accumulation.
Consult your veterinarian to determine if a dental diet is appropriate for your dog.
Maintaining your dog's dental health is crucial for their overall well-being.
Regular at-home care, combined with professional veterinary cleanings, can prevent tartar buildup and associated health issues.
So far, we have looked at 5 serious diseases related to tartar in dogs. I hope this article was of some help to those who raise dogs, and I would appreciate it if you could share this article with anyone who needs it.
