Three stages of tooth decay

Healthy Teeth

Stage 1

Bacteria are normally present in the mouth. The bacteria convert all foods -- especially sugar and starch -- into acids. Bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine in the mouth to form a sticky substance called plaque that adheres to the teeth. It is most prominent just above the gum line on all teeth. OraVet prevents bacteria from binding to the teeth. Plaque can be removed by tooth brushing or special dental diets.

Plaque and Gingivitis

Stage 2

Plaque that is not removed from the teeth mineralizes into tartar. Tartar cannot be removed at home. This is the stage where your pet needs a professional dental cleaning. This is the stage where your pet needs a professional dental cleaning to prevent the onset of dental disease.

Tartar Buildup, Gingivitis and Periodontitis

Stage 3

Plaque and tartar irritate the gums, resulting in gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and ultimately periodontitis (inflammation of the structures that hold teeth in place). This is the stage where your pet’s teeth are at the most risk. Inflamed gums and periodontitis can lead to painful, exposed roots and infection, loose teeth and dental abscesses. The bacteria can even begin to spread from the mouth to internal organs and cause other illnesses.

Tartar buildup, ulcerated gums, advanced periodontal disease
Gum erosion so severe that the tartar is the only thing holding the teeth in place

Cleaned tooth showing exposed roots due to gum erosion and bone loss

		Healthy Teeth Stage 1 Bacteria are normally present in the mouth. The bacteria convert all foods -- especially sugar and starch -- into acids. Bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine in the mouth to form a sticky substance called plaque that adheres to the teeth. It is most prominent just above the gum line on all teeth. OraVet prevents bacteria from binding to the teeth. Plaque can be removed by tooth brushing or special dental diets.

	Plaque and Gingivitis Stage 2 Plaque that is not removed from the teeth mineralizes into tartar. Tartar cannot be removed at home. This is the stage where your pet needs a professional dental cleaning. This is the stage where your pet needs a professional dental cleaning to prevent the onset of dental disease.

Tartar Buildup, Gingivitis and Periodontitis Stage 3 Plaque and tartar irritate the gums, resulting in gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and ultimately periodontitis (inflammation of the structures that hold teeth in place). This is the stage where your pet’s teeth are at the most risk. Inflamed gums and periodontitis can lead to painful, exposed roots and infection, loose teeth and dental abscesses. The bacteria can even begin to spread from the mouth to internal organs and cause other illnesses.

Tartar buildup, ulcerated gums, advanced periodontal disease		Gum erosion so severe that the tartar is the only thing holding the teeth in place	Cleaned tooth showing exposed roots due to gum erosion and bone loss