From Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM,
Your Guide to Veterinary Medicine.
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Definition: Pronunciation Key: Plak

Plaque is a soft deposit on the teeth. This deposit consists of large amounts of bacteria (greater than 1010 bacteria per milligram¹) with additional particles of foods, proteins, and cellular debris in the deposit. The bacterial colonies produce localized inflammation and infection, leading to gum infection (gingivitis), abscesses, and eventually tooth loss. Additionally, these bacteria can enter the bloodstream and colonize the heart valves and or liver, leading to larger health complications.

If your pet has plaque, brushing the teeth will be a great benefit to your pet's oral and overall health. Most pet supply stores carry toothpaste and toothbrushes suitable for your dogs and cats. I prefer the enzymatic toothpastes with flavors such as beef or chicken for best results. If your pet has tartar underneath the plaque, brushing will not remove the tartar. Please see your veterinarian to schedule a dental cleaning.

Reference¹: Microbiology of Dental Plaque
by Dr. Susan Kinder Haake

Related Reading
Is anesthesia necessary to do a dental cleaning on my pet?

Periodontics - treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis
With several photos

Definition of dental tartar
From dictionary.com

More Glossary Terms:
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Examples: Sam the shepherd bad breath and large amounts soft plaque on his teeth. His owner brushed and rinsed away the plaque with a toothbrush and toothpaste from the pet supply store.