Evaluation of Efficacy of a Dental Chew to Reduce Gingivitis, Dental Plaque, Calculus, and Halitosis in Toy Breed Dogs

J Vet Dent. 2020 Mar;37(1):22-28. doi: 10.1177/0898756420926766.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the clinical efficacy of a dental chew with mechanical and chemical properties in 2 toy dog breeds. Eight Yorkshire terriers and 9 Chihuahuas participated in a crossover design trial. Gingivitis, dental plaque, calculus, and volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) in the breath were assessed after 4 weeks and 9 weeks, respectively. When dogs were fed 1 dental chew per day they had significantly reduced gingivitis (-20%, P < .001), accumulation of plaque (-15%, P < .001), calculus (-35%, P = .001), and VSC concentration (-19%, P < .001) compared to when receiving no chew. A significant breed effect was observed on all the average dental indices and VSC concentration.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial, Veterinary

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calculi / veterinary*
  • Dental Calculus / veterinary
  • Dental Plaque / veterinary*
  • Dental Plaque Index
  • Dog Diseases*
  • Dogs
  • Gingivitis / veterinary*
  • Halitosis / veterinary*