' VETER1NART DENTAL SURGERT. 133 



Several theories have been advanced with regard 

 to the manner in which the deposition of tartar 

 takes place. The most satisfactory and at present 

 generally accepted theory is that it is precipitated 

 from the saliva, as that fluid enters the mouth, upon 

 the surface of the teeth opposite the opening of the 

 ducts from which it is poured. Particle after parti- 

 cle is deposited until it accumulates in such quanti- 

 ties that the whole tooth is almost or entirely en- 

 crusted with it. This is particularly noticeable in 

 connection with the canine teeth, which very often 

 are entirely covered with the secretion. 



EFFECTS OF TARTAR UPON THE TEETH, GUMS 



AND ALVEOLAR PROCESSES. 

 The effect of tartar upon the teeth varies to a 

 considerable extent. Some animals never seem to 

 suffer any inconvenience whatever, while in others 

 there is more or less irritation constantly present. 

 This is shown by tumefaction of the gums and 

 I believe in a good many instances gives rise to the 

 condition known as Lampas, when occurring in 

 old horses. Diseased gums and the destruction of 

 the alveolar processes, and the loosening and com- 

 plete loss of the teeth are among the resulting ef- 

 fects of its deposition. When deposited close to the 

 gum it by slow additions gradually forces the 

 gums and periosteum away from the tooth. After 

 this it acts as a foreign substance and nature en- 



