When it comes to your dog’s dental health, there’s no shortage of options—dental chews, flavored water additives, toothbrushes, toys, and treats that claim to fight plaque. But do any of them really work?
The truth is, some of these tools can help, but they’re no substitute for a professional canine dental cleaning. Let’s break down the difference so you know how to best protect your dog’s smile.
What Dog Dental Chews Actually Do
Dental chews are designed to help reduce plaque and tartar by encouraging chewing and promoting saliva flow. Some even contain ingredients that target bacteria or freshen breath.
When used regularly, the right chews can play a helpful role in your dog’s oral health routine—especially for breeds prone to buildup. But even the best chews only reach the surfaces your dog can chew with, leaving other areas untouched.
They also don’t address deeper issues like early-stage gum disease, loose teeth, or plaque that has already hardened into tartar.
Where Canine Dental Cleaning Comes In
A professional cleaning is the only way to remove hardened tartar and bacteria from the gumline and hard-to-reach areas. It also allows for early detection of dental problems you wouldn’t catch at home—like inflamed gums, cracked teeth, or signs of infection.
At Royal Touch Pet Dental, we offer non-anesthetic cleanings that are safe, gentle, and effective. We use hand tools to remove plaque, polish the teeth, and leave your dog’s mouth feeling fresh and healthy.
Unlike chews, which are passive, a cleaning is an active and thorough treatment that actually solves problems—not just delays them.
The Ideal Routine: Combine Both
Think of dental chews like flossing, and professional cleanings like going to the dentist. Both are important, but one doesn’t replace the other.
Using dental chews between cleanings can help reduce surface buildup and keep your dog’s breath fresher. But to truly maintain long-term oral health, regular canine dental cleanings are essential—especially for small breeds or older dogs who are more prone to dental issues.
What We Recommend
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Use VOHC-approved dental chews a few times a week
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Brush your dog’s teeth at least 2–3 times a week if possible
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Watch for early signs of dental trouble (bad breath, red gums, drooling)
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Schedule a professional cleaning every 6–12 months depending on your dog’s needs
How Royal Touch Pet Dental Can Help
We specialize in anesthesia-free canine dental cleanings that are gentle, safe, and stress-free. Whether your dog’s a seasoned pro or it’s their first cleaning, we’ll walk you through the process and make sure they leave with a healthier smile.
👉 Ready to go beyond the chew? Book your pet’s appointment here and let’s keep those teeth clean the right way!
