What happens if a dog has tartar (dental calculus)?

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A

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A dog’s tartar gradually erodes the teeth, causing sensitivity, looseness, and ulcerated, rotting gums. It also loosens the jawbone, and once bacteria invade they travel through the blood to the body, heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys, affecting cardiopulmonary function.

In addition, gum ulcers can develop into periodontitis, leading to gum recession, tooth loss, and severe pain when chewing. Therefore, when tartar is found, take the dog to a veterinary hospital for a dental cleaning, and brush its teeth regularly at home.

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