Keeping Your Dog’s Smile Healthy: Why Dental Care Matters
Many dogs develop some level of dental disease by the time they’re three years old. At first, it may just look like a little tartar or cause bad breath, but the problem goes deeper:
Plaque → Tartar → Gum Disease: Plaque builds up quickly and, if not removed, hardens into tartar. This irritates the gums and can progress to periodontal disease.
Pain and tooth loss: Advanced dental disease is painful and can make chewing difficult. Dogs may drop food, eat less, or paw at their mouths.
Whole-body effects: Bacteria from diseased gums can enter the bloodstream, stressing organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver.
In short, dental disease isn’t just about bad breath; it’s a health issue that affects your dog’s quality of life and longevity!
The foundation of good dental care
Professional cleanings: Vets perform scaling, polishing, and check under the gumline under anesthesia. This is not something we want to do often, but it is sometimes necessary.
Brushing: Daily brushing with a soft brush and dog-safe toothpaste is a good and effective habit to have at home.
Chews: Dental chews or dental toys can help reduce plaque if used regularly.
But let’s be honest: not every dog tolerates brushing, and busy schedules mean we often miss days. This is where daily dietary supplements can provide meaningful support.
Not Lambo:) but an example of the difference dental care makes!
Supplements for daily dental care
Supplements help by either reducing the bacteria that form plaque, making plaque less likely to harden into tartar, or supporting gum and oral tissue health. When choosing a dental supplement, look for products with ingredients backed by veterinary studies. Seaweed extracts (especially Ascophyllum nodosum) are considered a “north star” ingredient because research shows they can significantly reduce plaque and tartar buildup over time. Other helpful additions include nutrient-dense algae (spirulina, chlorella) or amino acids like lysine to strengthen gum health. The best supplements combine one or more of these approaches and work as daily support alongside professional cleanings and regular brushing.
One example of such a product is NEKTON Clean Smile, a powdered supplement designed to support oral hygiene when added to food.
How it works:
The star ingredient is Ascophyllum nodosum, a type of brown seaweed. Research has shown that supplements containing A. nodosum can help reduce plaque and tartar formation when given daily. It appears to work by:
Reducing bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation
Altering saliva composition, making it harder for plaque to mineralize into tartar
Providing anti-inflammatory compounds that support gum health
What’s inside
Ascophyllum nodosum — clinically studied for reducing plaque and tartar buildup
Spirulina & Chlorella (microalgae) — antioxidants and nutrients to support oral tissue health
L-lysine — an amino acid that helps maintain strong, healthy gums
Calcium carbonate — supports teeth and bone, while balancing oral pH
Brewer’s yeast & mint — for palatability and fresher breath
And it's easy to use! Just sprinkle on food, preferably wet food!
Good dental hygiene is critical to your dog’s health. Professional cleanings, brushing and an added layer of support with supplements like NEKTON Clean Smile can make a meaningful difference. With ingredients that help slow plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath, and support gum health, you can keep your dog’s smile healthier for longer. :)
