Which aspect of dental health can lead to complications in canines?

The presence of plaque and dental calculus is significant in canine dental health because these factors can lead to a range of complications if not addressed. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on the teeth, and if it is not removed through regular brushing or professional cleanings, it can harden into calculus (tartar). This buildup can result in periodontal disease, which affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, leading to inflammation, infection, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues if bacteria enter the bloodstream.

Maintaining good dental hygiene is critical to prevent these complications, highlighting the importance of regular veterinary dental check-ups and cleanings to mitigate the risks associated with plaque buildup and calculus formation. Other options, while relevant to canine dental health in certain contexts, do not pose the direct and significant complications associated with plaque and calculus. For example, the color of teeth around age 2 does not typically indicate a health issue unless other signs are present. Fluent tongue movement is generally not a concern for dental health, and the size of canine teeth typically relates more to breed characteristics than to dental health complications.