THE FORMATION OF TARTAR IN THE DOG - AETI O-PATHOGENIC HYPOTHESIS

Tartar results from the mineralisation dental plaque and represents a major pathology in the dog. The authors summarise present day knowledg e concerning its aetio-pathogenic mechanisms. A study was performed in volving about one hundred dog owners as well as a one-off measurement of saliva pH in their dogs. In parallel the variations in oral pH of s ix dogs were measured during periods of 12 hours. There are many concl usions which can be drawn form this study: - oral pH varies between 7. 8 and 9. - the pH varies in parallel with the animal. It is reduced at rest and is increased once the animal is stimulated. - there is a cor relation between tartar and age, badly positioned teeth and oral hygie ne. - the breed, sex, life style and the dietary regimen are not deter minant factors in the development of tartar.