Plaque, Tartar, and How Dental Disease Develops

Dental disease develops in stages, and understanding the progression helps you know what to watch for:

Stage 1: Plaque

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth after eating. It begins forming within hours of a meal. At this stage, plaque can be removed by brushing. This is the only stage where at-home care alone can reverse the problem.

Stage 2: Tartar (Calculus)

If plaque is not removed within 24 to 48 hours, it begins to mineralise and harden into tartar. Tartar is the yellow or brown hard deposit you may see at the gum line. Once tartar has formed, it cannot be removed by brushing alone — it requires professional dental scaling by your vet.

Stage 3: Gingivitis

Tartar irritates the gums, causing inflammation — this is gingivitis. The gums become red, swollen, and may bleed when touched. Gingivitis is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care.

Stage 4: Periodontal Disease

If gingivitis is left untreated, infection spreads below the gum line, destroying the tissue and bone that support the teeth. This is periodontal disease — it is painful, often irreversible, and can lead to tooth loss, jaw fractures, and systemic infection.

You do not need to be a vet to spot warning signs. Here is a quick visual guide for what to look for when you check your pet’s teeth:

Healthy Mouth

• White or slightly off-white teeth
• Pale pink gums (some breeds have pigmented gums — that is normal)
• No visible buildup at the gum line
• Fresh breath (not odourless, but not foul)

Early Warning Signs

• Yellow or brown deposits on teeth, especially at the gum line
• Pink or slightly reddened gums
• Mild bad breath

Advanced Warning Signs

• Heavy brown or grey buildup on multiple teeth
• Dark red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Very bad breath (often described as rotten)
• Loose or missing teeth
• Pus or discharge around the gum line
• Reluctance to chew on one side