Can a Dental Spray Remove Tartar on Dog Teeth?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth every day. It is often hard to see, and it can be wiped away. When plaque stays on the teeth, it hardens into tartar (also called calculus): a rough yellow or brown crust, usually along the gum line. Tartar is fixed to the tooth and cannot be wiped or rinsed off.

Not tartar that has already hardened. A dental spray works on plaque and the bacteria behind it, which is how it reduces buildup and helps stop new tartar from forming. Hardened tartar needs a professional cleaning at the vet. After that, a daily spray helps keep it from coming back.

An enzymatic dental spray puts enzymes and plant extracts directly on the teeth and gum line. The enzymes break down the bacterial film that turns into plaque and then tartar, and the other ingredients help freshen breath and soothe the gums.

With daily use, most pet parents notice fresher breath in 2 to 3 days and healthier gums within 2 to 3 weeks.

Gently lift your dog's lip and look at the teeth, including the back ones. Signs of tartar include:

• A yellow or brown crust on the teeth, often thickest near the gum line
• A red line along the gums where they meet the teeth
• Bad breath that does not improve with daily care

By your vet, with a professional dental cleaning. It is usually done under anesthesia so the vet can clean below the gum line, where tartar does the most damage, and check every tooth. Do not try to scrape tartar off at home with tools, because you can hurt the gums and scratch the teeth.

• Every day: 3 sprays on each side of the mouth, morning and night.
• When your dog lets you: a dental finger wipe over the teeth and gums to wipe plaque off.
• Once a year: a dental check at your regular vet visit.

Consistency matters more than any single product. Plaque forms every day, so the routine has to be daily too.

Small breeds tend to build up tartar faster, often because their teeth sit close together. Older dogs and dogs who have skipped dental care for a long time also tend to have more buildup. For these dogs a daily routine matters even more.

Yes, if it is made for pets. Furaqua Pet Dental Spray is made for daily use in dogs and cats over 12 weeks old. It has no xylitol and no alcohol, and the hypochlorous acid it contains (0.015%) is non-toxic and non-irritating, even if swallowed. If your pet has a medical condition or takes medication, check with your vet first.