Breaking Down Dog Plaque and Tartar: What’s the Difference?
Caring for your dog’s teeth is just as important as looking after their overall health. One of the most common areas of confusion among pet owners is the difference between dog plaque vs. tartar . While they might seem similar, these two dental issues are very different in how they form, appear, and impact your dog’s oral health. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what plaque and tartar really are, how they affect your dog’s teeth, and what steps you can take to manage and prevent them. What is Plaque? Plaque is a soft, invisible film that coats your dog’s teeth shortly after eating. It forms when saliva, leftover food particles, and bacteria combine. If not cleaned away regularly, this sticky layer becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to bad breath and inflammation around the gums. The good news? Plaque can be removed through consistent brushing with a toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs. What is Tartar? Tartar is what happens when plaque is left on the teeth f...