How Can I Tell If My Pet Has Tartar or Plaque?

🦷 First, What Is Plaque and Tartar? Before we dive into how to spot them, let’s define what we’re looking for: 📌 Keyword-friendly takeaway:Tartar removal for dogs and cats helps prevent gum inflammation, bad breath, and oral pain. 👀 How to Spot Plaque and Tartar on Your Dog or Cat Here are the most common […]

🦷 First, What Is Plaque and Tartar?

Before we dive into how to spot them, let’s define what we’re looking for:

📌 Keyword-friendly takeaway:
Tartar removal for dogs and cats helps prevent gum inflammation, bad breath, and oral pain.


👀 How to Spot Plaque and Tartar on Your Dog or Cat

Here are the most common signs your pet may have dental buildup — no microscope required.

1. Visible Yellow or Brown Buildup

Look closely at the teeth, especially the back molars. Do you see:

If yes, that’s tartar — and it’s time to take action.

🐾 Mobile pet dental cleaning in Florida can safely remove this buildup without anesthesia.


2. Bad Breath (a.k.a. “Doggy Dragon Breath”)

This is the big one. If your pup’s breath smells like old fish or garbage, it’s not “just how dogs smell.”
Halitosis is often caused by bacteria trapped in tartar and plaque. That odor is your warning signal.

Time for a dental assessment!


3. Red or Bleeding Gums

Gums should be pink and smooth, not red, swollen, or bleeding. Inflamed gums (gingivitis) are a sign that bacteria has started irritating the tissue.

Try gently lifting your pet’s lips and checking:

Gingivitis is reversible — but only if caught early.


4. Pawing at the Mouth or Face

If your pet keeps scratching at their face or rubbing it against furniture, that could mean:

While pets can’t tell you what hurts, this behavior often means something in the mouth is bothering them.

🔍 Early detection is key. A non-invasive dog dental cleaning may be all it takes to fix the problem.


5. Drooling or Difficulty Eating

Excessive drool or reluctance to eat dry food can point to:

In cats especially, subtle changes in eating habits may signal discomfort.


🚩 What Happens If You Ignore Tartar and Plaque?

Letting dental buildup go unchecked can lead to:

It’s a slow and silent process — but the consequences can be serious.

And remember: we’re not replacing your veterinarian. We’re your first line of defense, offering preventative cosmetic cleanings that keep your pet’s mouth clean between annual vet visits.


🧼 So… How Can You Prevent It?

Here’s the good news: it’s easier than you think.

✅ Brush Regularly

Even just 2-3 times a week can make a big difference. Use:

✅ Offer Dental Chews or Toys

Look for VOHC-approved dental chews that promote gum health and reduce plaque naturally.

✅ Book Regular Cleanings

At Pet Love Smile, we recommend:

💡 Our mobile pet dental services in South Florida cover areas from Fort Pierce to Homestead, including Miami, West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, and beyond.



🐶 How Our Non-Anesthetic Dental Cleanings Work

Our process is designed for safety, comfort, and convenience:

  1. We arrive at your home in our fully equipped spa van.
  2. Your pet stays relaxed in familiar surroundings.
  3. We perform a gentle temperament check to ensure your pet is comfortable.
  4. Our certified technician uses hand tools and ultrasonic brushes to remove visible tartar — with no sedation.
  5. You see instant results — fresher breath, cleaner teeth, and a happy pet.

And the best part? If your pet isn’t comfortable, we stop — and you don’t pay.


🎯 Final Takeaway: Don’t Wait for a Bark or a Bite

Tartar and plaque won’t go away on their own — and by the time symptoms appear, the damage might already be done.

That’s why at Pet Love Smile, we make prevention easy, convenient, and gentle — all while keeping your pet safe, happy, and smiling.

📲 Ready to schedule?
Text or call us at (754) 354-9276
Or visit www.petlovesmile.com

Because a clean mouth is more than cosmetic — it’s a sign of a longer, healthier life. 💜🐾