Dental chews claim to reduce the requirement for veterinary treatment of dental disease , mainly by the abrasive action they have against the tooth surface . In dogs , they have been shown to reduce halitosis by 45 %, plaque by 32 % and calculus by 60 % ( Stott , 2019 ). This varies according to the structure and composition of the chew , as well as the length of time and mechanical action the pet chews with .
Some chews , such as the Pedigree Dentastix daily oral care chew and Dentastix Advanced chew , contain ingredients designed to slow the mineralisation of plaque to tartar , giving owners more opportunity to brush the teeth before mineralisation occurs ( Milella , 2020a ). Greenies are designed specifically according to breed size , and may last even longer ( Milella , 2020a ). For cats , Dentabites have been specifically designed to cause abrasion on the tooth surface , rather than shatter when chewed , by having a lower density ( Milella , 2020b ).
Conclusion
Early assessment of young pets can be undertaken in nursing clinics to make owners aware of congenital defects which may affect the animal ’ s dentition , as well as to promote good standards of oral health ( Baxter , 2007 ). Using a model to demonstrate to owners how to brush teeth , explaining the effects of poor oral hygiene and providing them with written information to take home helps improve their compliance ( Barnes , 1994 ).
It is important to discuss the safety and effectiveness of dental chews , rawhide and biscuits ( Jevring , 1994 ) with visual displays for the owners during regular nursing consults ( Bowden , 1996 ). After dental treatment has been conducted , nursing recall appointments will demonstrate the team ’ s commitment to their pets ’ health ( Bloor , 2009 ) and could potentially improve client compliance .
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