Maintaining your dog’s oral health is a crucial aspect of responsible pet ownership. Daily teeth brushing is widely recognized as the most effective method for preventing periodontal disease, but many dogs resist this essential routine, making alternative solutions like dental sprays highly appealing to owners. These sprays are designed to combat plaque, a sticky bacterial film that, if left untreated, hardens into calculus (tartar), a significant contributor to dental problems in dogs.
Most dental sprays aim to prevent or break down plaque buildup. The active ingredients are typically designed to mix with a dog’s saliva and distribute throughout the mouth as the dog licks and swallows. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely, as dosages and application frequencies can vary based on the dog’s size and dental condition. Consistent use is key to achieving any potential benefits from these products.
While dental sprays can be a convenient addition to your dog’s oral hygiene routine, it’s essential to understand their role. Dr. Lindsey Schneider, a former dentistry and oral surgery resident at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals, emphasizes that “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.” Combining a dental spray with brushing, either immediately before or after, may offer enhanced benefits, but always refer to the product’s specific instructions.
Choosing the Right Dental Spray for Your Dog
When selecting an oral home care product for your pet, it’s advisable to consult the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) website. This organization lists products that have earned the VOHC Seal of Acceptance, indicating they have met predefined standards for plaque and calculus control in clinical trials. However, it’s wise to approach these findings with a degree of skepticism, as the trials are often funded by the companies that manufacture the products.
Understanding Ingredients
Due to limited independent research on canine dental products, many ingredients are adopted from human dental care studies. While some may translate to benefits for dogs, it’s crucial to remember that dogs and humans have different biological systems and may not respond identically. Always read ingredient labels carefully.
One ingredient with documented scientific backing for canine dental health is chlorhexidine. Its antimicrobial properties help reduce oral bacteria and disrupt plaque formation. While often used in rinses following professional dental cleanings, it can also be found in at-home care products.
Conversely, Dr. Schneider advises caution regarding xylitol, a sugar alcohol that can induce life-threatening hypoglycemia in pets. Although the concentration in dental products is typically low, the risk of accidental overdose, however small, exists. Additionally, ingredients like menthol, eugenol, and thymol, common in human dental products, can be unpalatable for dogs.
The Bottom Line on Dental Sprays
Currently, there is insufficient scientific data to definitively prove the universal effectiveness of dental sprays. However, a carefully selected dental spray is unlikely to cause harm and may offer some supplementary benefits when used as part of a comprehensive oral care program. As Dr. Schneider states, “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.”
This article was reprinted with permission from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s DogWatch newsletter. Consider becoming a member of the Riney Canine Health Center to receive a free subscription to DogWatch.
References:
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (n.d.). DogWatch Newsletter.
