The Maltese might be small and elegant, but their dental needs are anything but dainty. In fact, this breed is more prone than most to dental issues, and it’s something every owner should pay close attention to.

Without proper dental care, Maltese dogs can suffer from tartar buildup, gum disease, tooth loss, and even more serious health problems down the line. Let’s explore why this happens, what signs to look out for, and how to keep your Maltese’s teeth healthy.

Let’s talk about:

🐶 why maltese dogs have dental issues🐶 signs of dental trouble🐶 how to care for their teeth🐶 readers personal story🐶 Brain Training for Dogs🐶 final thoughts

Why Maltese Dogs Have Dental Issues

The Maltese breed is particularly vulnerable to dental problems due to a combination of their small mouths, closely packed teeth, and tendency toward gum sensitivity. These factors make it easier for plaque and bacteria to thrive if oral hygiene isn’t consistent.

In many cases, food particles get stuck between their small teeth, and without regular brushing, that debris turns into tartar. Over time, this can lead to gingivitis, tooth decay, or even infection spreading to other organs via the bloodstream.

Toy breeds like the Maltese are also more likely to experience early tooth loss because their teeth have less bone support than larger breeds. Dental issues aren’t just about bad breath—they’re a serious health concern.

Signs of Dental Trouble

Recognizing the signs of dental disease early can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort and long-term health. Unfortunately, dogs often don’t show signs of pain until the problem is more advanced.

Here’s what to watch for:

Bad breath (beyond the usual “dog breath”)

Red or swollen gums

Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth

Difficulty eating or chewing

Pawing at the mouth or face

Excessive drooling

Loose or missing teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time for a dental check-up. Don’t wait for your dog to show discomfort—preventative care is key.

How to Care for Their Teeth

Good dental hygiene starts at home. While professional cleanings are important, most of the work happens day-to-day with small habits that add up to big results.

Here are the essentials:

Brush your Maltese’s teeth at least 3 times per week using a dog-safe toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste.

Dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar when used regularly.

Offer chew toys that promote healthy teeth and gums.

Routine vet cleanings (once a year or as advised) help maintain oral health.

Watch the diet—dry kibble or specially formulated dental foods can reduce buildup.

Start early with brushing so your dog sees it as a normal part of their routine. Even a few minutes a few times a week can dramatically reduce future issues.

The Best Dental Chew

Greenies are one of the classics, and they remain to be at the top of the game when it comes to dental sticks. Greenies products have been approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council and have their seal of acceptance for plaque and tartar control.

Greenies dental chews are made from natural stuff and are meant to be given to your dog once a day. They help with lots of dental care tasks. You can get them in different sizes and tastes, and they have lots of good vitamins and minerals.

Thanks to the shape and texture of these treats, they gently massage your dog’s gums while he’s munching away. Blood flow is so important and is one of the contributing factors to healthy gums.

These treats have also been shown to significantly reduce tartar and plaque build-up in a relatively short period of time, as backed by the VOHC.

Also seen within customer reviews is how Greenies greatly reduces bad breath. When your Maltese has bad breath it can seriously knock people off their feet, so this is a great bonus aside from all of the health benefits that you can expect to receive.

Pros of Greenies Dental Dog TreatsCons of Greenies Dental Dog Treats✔️ Highly reviewed with 96% recommending to others❌ A little pricey✔️ Veterinary Oral Health Council Approved❌ Not all ingredients sourced from USA✔️ Made with natural ingredients✔️ Contains vitamins and minerals✔️ Soft and bendy to avoid breaking✔️ Proven to reduce tartar and plaque✔️ Provide excellent gum blood flow✔️ Neutralizes bad breath✔️ Highly soluble & easily digestible✔️ Balanced recipe for healthy treating

With hundreds of 5-star reviews and 96% of customers voting that they will either purchase again or recommend them to another dog owner, it’s hard to go wrong with these awesome dental sticks. Check Greenies out here on Amazon.com

A Reader’s Story: Learning the Hard Way

Sarah from Florida shared how she didn’t realize her Maltese, Max, was having dental issues until it was too late. “He was still eating and playing, but one day I noticed blood on his chew toy. The vet found severe gum disease and had to remove three teeth.”

Now she brushes Max’s teeth every other day and uses dental treats. “His breath smells way better, and I feel better knowing I’m taking care of his overall health. I wish I’d started sooner.”

🧠 Don’t Forget Mental Hygiene Too!

Mental stimulation helps keep dogs healthy in every way—including better behavior during brushing and grooming. Brain Training for Dogs offers fun exercises that build patience and trust—making daily care easier.

👉 Click here to explore Brain Training for Dogs

If your Maltese fidgets during brushing, brain training can help them stay calmer and more cooperative.

Final Thoughts

Yes, Maltese dogs are prone to dental problems—but most of these issues are preventable with the right care. Paying attention to their oral health not only avoids expensive vet bills but also keeps your dog happy and pain-free.

Build a routine that includes brushing, chews, and regular vet checks, and your Maltese will thank you with a bright, healthy smile for years to come.