Sodium Hexametaphosphate for Dogs: What Vets Want Us To Know

Sodium hexametaphosphate, or SHMP, is a mineral ingredient, specifically a type of salt made from sodium and phosphate molecules bonded together. It’s commonly used in both human and canine dental products to bind calcium and other minerals found in saliva. This may help manage soft buildup and limit it from hardening into tartar over time.

In this article, we’ll explore what SHMP is, how it works, and which types of dog dental products often include it. We’ll also cover what pet parents should know before using products like PetLab Co.’s ProBright® Advanced dental powder, which contains SHMP as part of its formulation.

What Is Sodium Hexametaphosphate for Dogs?

Puppy kisses are one of the joys that come along with having a dog in your family; however, if your dog has stinky breath and their teeth appear discolored, those kisses can be a lot less pleasant! Dogs’ mouths are prone to mineral buildup, which can lead to tartar developing over time, especially if daily toothbrushing isn’t consistent.

Sodium hexametaphosphate for dogs is often found in canine dental powders and chews formulated to support oral cleanliness and maintain a healthy mouth environment. In these formulations, SHMP binds with calcium in saliva, which may help control mineral deposits before they harden into tartar. It’s important to note that SHMP is designed to help address buildup – it does not dissolve tartar that has already formed.

How Can Sodium Hexametaphosphate Help Support Dog Dental Hygiene?

Products with SHMP, like ProBright® Advanced, can be a great way to give your dog’s daily toothbrushing routine a little extra support – and may help keep their teeth cleaner between professional dental cleanings. 

By helping to keep buildup softer, SHMP can make brushing with a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste even more beneficial. Brushing is still the best way to help keep your dog’s teeth clean and support overall mouth hygiene, so think of SHMP as a helpful addition, not a replacement. And just like with any routine, consistency is key to seeing the best results.

PetLab Co.’s Bestselling Dog Dental Powder Includes Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Here’s Why

ProBright Advanced is a vet-reviewed dental powder designed for daily use. It’s clinically studied* for its impact on oral odor and is formulated to support oral cleanliness and help maintain a balanced mouth environment. SHMP is included in the formula to help support oral cleanliness and target the buildup of tartar-forming minerals.

Here’s what’s inside:

• Sodium Hexametaphosphate – Binds to tartar-forming minerals to help address hardened buildup.
• Brown algae (Ascophyllum nodosum) – An edible seaweed that helps support oral cleanliness and maintain healthy teeth and gums. Its use in dental products has been supported by clinical trials. 
• Proprietary probiotic blend – Designed to support a balanced oral microbiome and promote fresh breath.
• Herbal extracts (rosemary, green tea) – Included for their antioxidant and microbial balancing properties to support overall oral hygiene.

How Does Sodium Hexametaphosphate Work In ProBright Advanced? 

ProBright® Advanced is designed to support your dog’s daily dental routine by helping maintain a cleaner mouth environment. One of its key ingredients, Sodium Hexametaphosphate (SHMP), works by binding to minerals in your dog’s saliva. This can help target these minerals so it’s less likely to harden into tartar over time, making it easier for daily brushing to do its job.

Because SHMP helps keep buildup in a softer state, it’s best used consistently, every day, as part of a broader oral hygiene routine that includes brushing. ProBright® Advanced isn’t meant to replace toothbrushing, but it can work alongside it to help keep your dog’s teeth looking and feeling cleaner, especially between professional dental cleanings.

Sodium Hexametaphosphate FAQ

Is Sodium Hexametaphosphate suitable for dogs?

Yes, SHMP is commonly used in both food and dental products. When used as directed, it’s considered suitable and well-tolerated.

Does SHMP remove tartar?

SHMP does not “remove” tartar, but may help manage the buildup of tartar-forming minerals, helping target tartar before it forms.

Can SHMP help with bad breath?
Yes, by helping limit buildup and supporting a cleaner mouth environment, SHMP may help freshen bad breath reduce odor caused by tartar-forming compounds.

Is SHMP a substitute for brushing?
No. SHMP-containing products like ProBright Advanced are meant to support, but not replace, daily toothbrushing with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.

How long does it take to work?
SHMP works best with consistent use. In a clinical study, ProBright Advanced showed measurable results in as little as 28 days.* 

What kinds of products include SHMP?
SHMP is typically found in dental powders, chews, and oral supplements designed to support oral hygiene. ProBright Advanced is one example that combines SHMP with probiotics and plant extracts.

Conclusion: Sodium Hexametaphosphate for Dogs

Sodium hexametaphosphate is a common ingredient in dog dental care products, such as PetLab Co.’s Probright Advanced. While SHMP alone will not remove tartar that has already built up, it is a science-backed part of a holistic approach to oral care. If you’re curious about how to better support your dog’s dental health, consider talking to your vet about exploring a product with ingredients such as SHMP. 

*A 28-day study found ProBright Advanced significantly reduced a key odor causing compound in dogs. Individual results may vary. ProBright Advanced is intended to support oral hygiene and is not a treatment for dental disease.