Complete Maltese Dental Care Guide | Oral Care to Prevent Big Problems in a Tiny Mouth

The Maltese is famous for its flowing white coat and gleaming white teeth—but that 2.5–4 kg compact frame and narrow jaw mean teeth are packed closely together, trapping food particles and allowing tartar to build up fast. Studies suggest over 80% of Maltese over age three experience periodontal disease, making dental health a top at-home care priority for every Maltese owner.

01Why Are Maltese So Vulnerable to Dental Problems?

Although the Maltese isn't brachycephalic (short-muzzled), it does have a high tooth-to-jaw ratio—42 permanent teeth crowded into a small mouth leave little space between them. This tight arrangement makes it easy for food debris and bacterial plaque to accumulate in hard-to-reach areas that brushes struggle to clean.

Maltese also frequently have irregular tooth alignment and are prone to retained deciduous (baby) teeth or double dentition, where permanent teeth erupt alongside baby teeth that haven't fallen out. These structural traits mean that neglected plaque can work its way below the gum line, progressing to periodonitis, root abscesses, and—in severe cases—systemic effects on the heart and kidneys.

As a white long-coated breed, the Maltese is also prone to tear-stain-like discoloration around the mouth when saliva and food residue cling to facial hair, underscoring the importance of rigorous oral hygiene.

02Daily Brushing: A Maltese-Specific Routine

The cornerstone of Maltese dental care is daily, gentle, and consistent brushing. Aim for once a day, ideally after the last evening meal.

What You'll Need and How to Do It

• Extra-small or finger-brush toothbrush (small head sized for a Maltese mouth)
• Dog-specific toothpaste (xylitol-free; enzyme formulas recommended)
• Start by gently lifting the lips to brush front teeth; expand to molars as your dog becomes comfortable
• Hold bristles at a 45-degree angle to the gum line and brush in small circular motions
• Even 10–20 seconds every day is more effective than one long session per week

Maltese are generally gentle, but many are sensitive about having their mouths handled. Begin socialization training early (8–12 weeks) by touching lips and gums regularly. Pair brushing with praise and a small reward to build positive associations.

03Using Dental Chews and Toys Effectively

Dental chews, dental treats, and textured chew toys can complement brushing by mechanically scraping away tartar and stimulating saliva flow, which helps the mouth self-clean.

Selection Guide

• Choose 'small breed' products sized for 2.5–4 kg Maltese
• Avoid overly hard items that risk fracturing teeth—look for chews that yield slightly under thumbnail pressure
• VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) certification indicates proven efficacy
• Limit treats to within 10% of daily calories (small breeds are prone to obesity)

Remember, dental chews alone cannot remove plaque below the gum line, so think of them as supplements, not substitutes for brushing. The best approach combines both.

04Choosing Oral Home-Care Products

Recently, oral care solutions—gels you apply directly or liquids added to drinking water—have gained popularity. These can help on days when brushing isn't possible or to reinforce tartar prevention.

Convenient at-home products like ANITOK Care may help inhibit plaque formation and reduce bad breath through enzymes or natural extracts. When selecting any product, always verify it is alcohol-free, xylitol-free, and safety-tested for pets.

Even with consistent home care, regular veterinary check-ups remain essential. At-home products support prevention and maintenance; removing accumulated tartar requires professional scaling.

05Improving the Oral Environment Through Diet and Water Management

Maltese can be food-motivated and may beg for treats throughout the day, but frequent snacking leaves sugars and starches in the mouth, fueling bacterial growth. Instead, feed meals and treats at set times, then gently wipe the mouth area about 30 minutes later.

• Dry kibble offers more tooth-scrubbing action than wet food, but if kibble is too small, dogs may swallow without chewing—choose an appropriate size
• Encourage plenty of fresh water after meals to rinse away debris
• Human foods—especially sweets, bread, and snacks—stick to teeth and promote cavities and gum inflammation; avoid entirely

Clean water bowls at least once daily. Because the Maltese's beard and facial hair get wet easily, bacteria and staining can develop; gently towel-dry the muzzle area after meals.

06Regular Check-Ups and Professional Scaling Plans

No matter how diligent you are at home, tartar that has mineralized below the gum line cannot be removed by brushing alone. Maltese typically begin showing visible tartar by 1–2 years of age, so schedule an oral exam at least annually and arrange professional scaling as needed.

Scaling requires general anesthesia, which understandably worries many owners, but ultrasonic instruments can thoroughly clean beneath the gums, and polishing smooths tooth surfaces to slow reattachment. If retained baby teeth or double dentition are detected, early extraction is beneficial for long-term oral health.

Combining consistent home brushing with regular veterinary checkups and scaling—a 'home care + professional care' dual-track strategy—is the most reliable way to keep your Maltese's teeth healthy for life.