Dental disease begins with plaque. Plaque is the film of bacteria that colonizes the tooth surface within a few hours of brushing the teeth. The bacteria can also adhere to the tooth surface below the gum line. This is the beginning of periodontal disease. The bacteria damage the gum tissue, as well as the connective tissues that anchor the teeth in the jaw.
Periodontal disease is progressive, and eventually results in premature tooth loss if untreated.
Minerals present in saliva can precipitate out onto the plaque covered tooth surface, resulting in dental tartar. Tartar can be seen as the yellowish-brown deposits just above the gum line. These deposits can build up over time into large chunks of material. Severe bad breath develops as the result of the dental infection. Remember, bad breath is not normal in dogs.