Dog & Cat Dental Care: How to Support Healthy Teeth and Gums with Protexin PlaqEase

Looking after your pet's teeth is an important part of their overall health and wellbeing. While bad breath might be the first sign that something isn't quite right, poor dental hygiene can lead to plaque build-up, tartar, gum disease and other oral health concerns.

From regular toothbrushing to daily dental supplements such as Protexin Veterinary PlaqEase Dental Powder, there are several ways to help maintain your pet's oral health.

Why Is Dental Care Important for Dogs and Cats?

Dental problems in pets are more than cosmetic. Oral health conditions are among the most common clinical findings in veterinary practice, with Protexin Veterinary citing studies suggesting that up to 90% of dogs show signs of changes in their teeth and gums by one year of age, and 70% of cats by three years of age.¹,²

Periodontal disease – an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues – is one of the most common conditions in adult cats and dogs. If left untreated, it can lead to:

• Pain and discomfort

• Gum inflammation and bacterial infections

• Painful tooth loss

• Difficulty eating or chewing

• Bad breath (halitosis)

Research has also identified associations between poor oral health and conditions affecting other parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys and liver, as well as impacts on the welfare of dogs and cats.³,⁴

Maintaining a consistent dental care routine can help manage plaque build-up, reduce the risk of dental disease and support your pet's long-term oral health.

Understanding Plaque, Tartar and the Oral Microbiome in Pets

Plaque and tartar are common dental concerns in both dogs and cats, but they're not the same thing.

Plaque is a clear, sticky film which forms over the teeth. It is made up of bacteria, saliva and food particles and can be removed by brushing.

Tartar, also known as calculus, forms when plaque is not removed regularly and hardens on the teeth. Tartar is a brown, hard substance that coats the teeth. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed by brushing and may require professional veterinary cleaning.

When plaque and tartar continue to accumulate, they can affect the surrounding gums and contribute to dental disease.

Your pet's mouth also contains a unique population of microorganisms, mostly bacteria, known as the oral microbiome. These bacteria play a role in maintaining oral health, although some can also contribute to plaque formation.⁵

An imbalance of the oral microbiome, known as dysbiosis, can contribute to dental conditions. Maintaining a healthy balance helps limit the growth of certain bacteria that may cause oral health issues.

Signs Your Dog or Cat May Have Dental Problems

Watch for these early signs of dental issues in pets:

• Bad breath (halitosis)

• Red or bleeding gums

• Yellow or brown tartar build-up

• Difficulty eating or chewing

• Drooling or pawing at the mouth

If you spot any of these symptoms, schedule a veterinary dental exam.

How to Keep Your Dog or Cat's Teeth Clean

There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to pet dental care. The most suitable routine will depend on your pet's individual needs and how comfortable they are with different dental care methods.

Regular Toothbrushing

Brushing your pet's teeth regularly (ideally daily) is the best way to look after their teeth. It removes plaque, helping to prevent excess build-up and tartar formation.⁸

Here's how to do it:

1. Always use a pet-friendly toothpaste; human toothpaste can be toxic for pets.

2. Ideally, start when your pet is young – although it's never too late.

3. Offer your pet some toothpaste to help them get used to the taste.

4. Gently stroke around your pet's mouth and rub along their gums so touching their mouth becomes normal.

5. Once comfortable, try using a finger brush to gently brush their teeth.
   
   

   

6. Progress to a longer-handled toothbrush to reach the back teeth more easily, if your pet allows it.
   
   

   

Take this slowly – it may take several weeks – and give your pet lots of rewards.

Tip: Some pets may not let you brush their teeth. Research has found that dog owners can experience difficulties examining and brushing their dogs' teeth.⁶ Always keep yourself safe!

Other Dental Care Options

Dental powders and supplements: For pets that don't tolerate toothbrushing, products such as Protexin Veterinary PlaqEase Dental Powder can provide additional oral health support and are easily added to regular food.

Dental chews: A convenient option for supporting oral health, although effectiveness varies between products and it's important to consider their calorie content.

Water additives: Can be used for daily dental maintenance, although effectiveness varies between products.

Dental diets: Specially formulated diets can support oral health, particularly if your pet doesn't require another specialised diet.

Professional scale and polish: Performed under anaesthesia at a veterinary practice, professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. It also allows for a thorough dental examination, X-rays and tooth extractions if necessary.¹

A combination approach often works best, depending on your pet's temperament and needs. Talk to your veterinary team about the most suitable products and dental care routine.

Regular Dental Checks and Breed-Specific Considerations

Your pet's mouth should be checked by a vet or vet nurse at least once a year to maintain good oral health.

Some pets are more prone to dental issues than others. Smaller dog breeds (e.g. Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers) often have overcrowded teeth, flat-faced cats and dogs (such as Persians and Pugs) may experience dental misalignment, and older pets can have more frequent oral health concerns.²,⁷

The regularity of professional dental cleaning will depend on your pet's breed, age and home dental care habits.

Introducing Protexin Veterinary PlaqEase Dental Powder

Protexin Veterinary PlaqEase Dental Powder is a scientifically formulated daily dental supplement for dogs and cats.

Developed to help control plaque, reduce bad breath and support healthy oral and gut microbiomes, PlaqEase combines prebiotics, postbiotics, kelp and vitamin C in an easy-to-administer powder.

The chicken-flavoured powder can be sprinkled over or mixed into your pet's regular food, making it a convenient addition to their dental care routine.

Available in 75g and 150g pots, PlaqEase includes a measuring scoop for daily administration.

What Are the Benefits of PlaqEase?

According to Protexin Veterinary, PlaqEase is formulated to help:

• Control plaque and tartar build-up with clinically studied ingredients.⁹

• Reduce bad breath and unpleasant oral odours.

• Support healthy gums and oral health.

• Maintain a balanced oral microbiome.

• Support gut microbiome health with prebiotic and postbiotic ingredients.

• Simplify daily dental care by adding the powder directly to food.

PlaqEase is designed for ongoing daily use alongside other dental care methods.

What's Inside Protexin PlaqEase?

PlaqEase combines several ingredients selected to support oral and microbiome health.

Ascophyllum nodosum (Brown Seaweed): A type of brown seaweed studied for its oral health benefits in dogs and cats. Research has shown that it can help reduce plaque and tartar accumulation.⁹

PRIOME® OC Postbiotic: Contains inactivated Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CECT 9161, a postbiotic ingredient formulated to support a healthy oral microbiome.¹⁰

CitriStim Postbiotic: Contains inactivated Pichia guilliermondii yeast and provides components including mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) and beta-glucans, which have been studied for their role in supporting immune function.¹¹

Fibersol-2® Prebiotic: A prebiotic ingredient that supports beneficial bacteria and contributes to microbiome health.

Vitamin C: Supports collagen production, which is important for connective tissues such as the gums, and acts as an antioxidant.¹²

The formula also contains calcium carbonate.

Can PlaqEase Help with Bad Breath in Dogs?

Bad breath is one of the most noticeable signs of poor oral hygiene in dogs.

In a Protexin Veterinary product survey involving 102 dog owners, 84% reported an improvement in their dog's unpleasant breath after four weeks of using PlaqEase.¹³

The same survey found that 87% of owners reported their dogs enjoyed the taste of the product.¹³

These results are based on owner-reported experiences and may vary between individual pets.

How to Use Protexin PlaqEase Dental Powder

PlaqEase is designed for once-daily use. Shake the container before use, then sprinkle the recommended amount over your pet's food or mix it into their meal. Water may also be added.

Recommended Daily Dosage

Always use the supplied measuring scoop and ensure fresh drinking water is available.

Important: PlaqEase is naturally high in iodine and should be used with caution in animals with thyroid conditions. Follow your veterinarian's guidance regarding dosage and duration.

Frequently Asked Questions About PlaqEase

Can PlaqEase Be Used Long-Term?

According to the manufacturer, PlaqEase is suitable for daily, long-term use to support ongoing dental hygiene and microbiome health.

How Long Does PlaqEase Take to Work?

Some pet owners may notice improvements in breath within a few weeks of consistent daily use. In a product survey, 84% of participating dog owners reported an improvement in unpleasant breath after four weeks.¹³

Individual results may vary, and persistent bad breath or other dental concerns should be assessed by a veterinarian.

Is PlaqEase Suitable for Cats and Dogs?

Yes. PlaqEase is formulated for both cats and dogs and is suitable for adult pets of different sizes. Follow the recommended dosage based on your pet's weight.

Support Your Pet's Dental Health with Protexin PlaqEase

Good oral health comes from a consistent routine. Brushing your pet's teeth regularly, providing suitable dental chews or supplements and scheduling annual veterinary dental checks can all help maintain healthier teeth and gums.

While toothbrushing remains the gold standard for managing plaque, Protexin Veterinary PlaqEase Dental Powder provides a convenient way to incorporate additional dental support into your pet's daily routine.

Shop Protexin Veterinary PlaqEase Dental Powder at PetPA and explore a simple addition to your pet's daily dental care routine.

References

1. Niemiec, B., Gawor, J., Nemec, A., et al. (2020). World Small Animal Veterinary Association global dental guidelines. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 61, E36–E161.

2. O'Neill, D. G., Blenkarn, A., Brodbelt, D. C., Church, D. B., & Freeman, A. (2023). Periodontal disease in cats under primary veterinary care in the UK: Frequency and risk factors. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 25(3), 1098612X231158154.

3. Pavlica, Z. (2008). Periodontal disease burden and pathological changes in organs of dogs. Journal of Veterinary Dentistry, 25, 97–105.

4. Summers, J. F., O'Neill, D. G., Church, D., et al. (2019). Health-related welfare prioritisation of canine disorders using electronic health records in primary care practice in the UK. BMC Veterinary Research, 15, 163.

5. Davis, I. J., Wallis, C., Deusch, O., et al. (2013). A cross-sectional survey of bacterial species in plaque from client-owned dogs with healthy gingiva, gingivitis or mild periodontitis. PLoS ONE, 8(12), e83158.

6. Enlund, K. B., Brunius, C., Hanson, J., et al. (2020). Dog owners' perspectives on canine dental health—a questionnaire study in Sweden. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7, 298.

7. Harvey, C. E., Shofer, F. S., & Laster, L. (1994). Association of age and body weight with periodontal disease in North American dogs. Journal of Veterinary Dentistry, 11, 94–105.

8. Harvey, C., Serfilippi, L., & Barnvos, D. (2015). Effect of frequency of brushing teeth on plaque and calculus accumulation, and gingivitis in dogs. Journal of Veterinary Dentistry, 32, 16–21.

9. Gawor, J., Jank, M., Jodkowska, K., Klim, E., & Svensson, U. K. (2018). Effects of edible treats containing Ascophyllum nodosum on the oral health of dogs: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled single-center study. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 5, 168.

10. Florit, A., Rago, L., Rosier, B. T., et al. (2024). New postbiotic to improve canine oral health [Abstract]. Proceedings of the 14th European Oral Microbiology Workshop, Valencia, Spain.

11. Paris, S., Chapat, L., Pasin, M., et al. (2020). β-glucan-induced trained immunity in dogs. Frontiers in Immunology, 11, 566893.

12. Van der Velden, U. (2020). Vitamin C and its role in periodontal diseases—the past and the present: A narrative review. Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry, 18(2), 115–124.

13. Home Tester Club. (2025). Protexin Veterinary PlaqEase product survey of 102 dog owners. Manufacturer-cited survey data (full report not provided).