How often should I remove tartar and brush my dog's teeth — what happens if I don't?

Quick answer

Without brushing, plaque turns into tartar in as little as 3 days for dogs. Tartar buildup causes gum inflammation (periodontitis), and in severe cases, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause heart or kidney disease. The most reliable prevention is brushing once a day with a pet-specific toothpaste while your dog's teeth are still healthy.