Does dog dental gel actually work?

Tooth brushing is considered a superior technique for reducing plaque accumulation. Chemical agents may be used to reduce plaque accumulation on tooth surfaces since many owners may not be willing or able to brush their dog's teeth. Dogs in the treatment group had significantly less plaque accumulation during the trial period compared with dogs in the control group. The dental gel applied in the study reported here decreases plaque accumulation in the short-term and may be beneficial in reducing the severity of gingivitis and associated periodontal disease if provided on a long-term basis. Following a professional teeth cleaning procedure, a dental gel containing chlorhexidine was applied in 11 dogs BID for 7-days, while 11 other dogs received a control dental gel applied in the same manner.

And they do this to some extent, according to Monique Feyrecilde, a licensed veterinary technician and behavior specialist at Mercer Island Veterinary Clinic—which offers advanced pet dentistry in Seattle, Washington. These products work in a few ways, bacteria living in the mouth create a coating on the pet’s teeth called a ‘biofilm.’ Some of the ingredients work to break down the biofilm, while other ingredients are meant to kill the bacteria themselves. Water additives and mouthwashes will not take the place of brushing, but are a good adjunct to a comprehensive home care plan. When added to your overall home care plan, yes, dog mouthwashes and dental water additives can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and breath smelling fresh. They’re great for aiding in your brushing routine at home, taking your dog’s overall dental care to the next level, freshening breath by keeping bacteria at bay, and helping serve as an interim option when pups can’t brush. Dog mouthwashes, however, are not a cure-all or a replacement for frequent brushing and regular vet visits.

Most dental products, including dental sprays, target plaque formation in the fight to keep your dog’s mouth healthy. Dental sprays claim to prevent or break down plaque buildup. Many dental sprays tout that brushing is not necessary, but combining the two may be beneficial. There isn’t sufficient scientific data to support the effectiveness of dental sprays, but a carefully chosen dental spray product is unlikely to do harm and may help. As with any product, you are more likely to achieve positive results if you use it consistently. Lindsey Schneider, D.V.M. '13, former dentistry and oral surgery resident at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals, says, Daily tooth brushing is the most effective way of maintaining our pets’ oral health and minimizing the progression of periodontal disease. Other home care strategies, such as dental chews, water additives, sprays, etc., work best when used in conjunction with tooth brushing. Ultimately, all home care products are most effective when used as part of an overall dental care program that begins with a veterinarian examination and professional treatment.