Preventing Dog Periodontal Disease: Study Reveals Gaps

Periodontal disease, marked by inflamed gums and tooth-supporting bone loss, affects most dogs over three years old. Veterinary science identifies daily tooth brushing as the best prevention, but owner compliance is low. A 2022 Swedish study analyzed 8,742 open-ended responses from dog owners to understand this gap, revealing a reliance on dental chews and widespread misconceptions that contrast with professional advice.

A Wide Gulf Between Owner Beliefs and Veterinary Science

Researchers Karolina Enlund, Ann Pettersson, and Ann Catrine Eldh identified five main themes in owner responses. The most prominent was a strong trust that specific diets and chewing activities, like gnawing on bones, automatically maintain dental health. Many owners perceived these as sufficient, complete strategies. “Contrary to existing research and knowledge in the field, the respondents commonly trusted that diet procure good dental health in the dog, as does chewing on bones,” the authors wrote. Owners also cited barriers like a dog’s dislike of brushing, lack of time, and a need for better knowledge and support from veterinarians.

This reveals a critical disconnect. While dental chews and some prescription dental diets have proven benefits, the study notes a “range of misconceptions flourish among dog owners.” The assumption that any hard kibble or recreational bone provides equivalent cleaning is not supported. For a detailed look at the serious risks of untreated dental issues, see our article on Periodontal Disease in Dogs.

How a Daily Dental Chew Performs in Controlled Testing

So what does the evidence say about chews? A separate 28-day study published in the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry provides concrete numbers. Sixty dogs were divided into two groups: one fed only a commercial dry diet (control), and the other fed the same diet plus one daily edible dental chew. The chew had a flexible texture and a shaped design intended to clean rear teeth.

Results were measured against the control group. The dental chew group showed a 65.8% reduction in plaque accumulation and a 57% reduction in calculus (tartar). Gingival inflammation scores improved by 60.2%, and oral malodor was reduced. The mechanical action of chewing, combined with the chew’s texture and shape scraping across tooth surfaces, physically disrupts the biofilm that becomes plaque. This study, funded by a chew manufacturer, demonstrates that specific, designed dental chews can be a effective adjunctive tool.

Chews Are an Adjunct, Not a Replacement

The central takeaway from both studies is that dental chews serve as a supplement, not a substitute, for comprehensive oral care. The Swedish thematic analysis shows owners often stop at the chew, believing the job is done. However, veterinary dental specialists compare this to using a chew instead of brushing your own teeth—it can help, but it cannot clean all surfaces, especially under the gumline where periodontal disease begins.

Brad Quest, author of the chew study, noted the research quantified benefits “as measured by plaque and calculus control.” He did not claim it replaced brushing. The Swedish researchers argue this distinction is lost on many owners, indicating a need for clearer communication. They also highlight a lack of high-quality evidence for many products marketed for dental health, calling for more randomized controlled trials across different breeds, sizes, and ages of dogs.

Building an Effective and Practical Dental Care Routine

Integrating these findings leads to a multi-faceted strategy. First, daily tooth brushing with veterinary toothpaste remains the gold standard for disrupting plaque. For dogs resistant to brushing, starting slowly and using positive reinforcement is key. The Swedish study suggests veterinarians can help bridge this gap by providing hands-on support and troubleshooting.

Second, select dental chews that have published evidence of efficacy, like the one tested in the 2013 trial, and use them daily as a helpful addition. Avoid hard bones, antlers, or nylon chews that can fracture teeth. Third, schedule annual veterinary oral exams and professional cleanings under anesthesia when advised. This combination addresses the problem mechanically, behaviorally, and medically.

Understanding a dog’s individual needs is part of responsible ownership, similar to managing conditions like canine heart disease or considering structured enrichment for overall animal wellness.

Dog dental health requires moving beyond single solutions. While evidence shows specific dental chews significantly reduce plaque and tartar, owner surveys reveal an over-reliance on this method. The most effective approach combines daily brushing, evidence-based adjuncts like approved dental chews, and regular professional care, all supported by clear guidance from veterinary teams.

Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35591871/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24006717/