CALCULUS

Definition:
Calculus is hardened solidified plaque.

The Development of Calculus:
1) If the teeth are not cleaned, plaque begins to accumulate and the minerals contained in a pet's saliva, such as calcium and salt, begin to stick to the soft plaque

2) As these minerals accumulate, the plaque hardens and solidifies into calculus

3) The bacteria, protected by the hard calculus, are harder to remove and continue to rapidly multiply

4) Occasionally, softer calculus can be removed by certain chew toys, but hard calculus must be scaled off the teeth by a veterinarian or veterinary technician.