Experimental gingivitis and frequency of tooth brushing in the beagle dog model

Abstract

The aim of this experiment was to study clinical parameters when 3 different frequencies of tooth brushing were applied to sites of experimental gingivitis in beagle dogs. 12 beagle dogs, at the start of the experiment 2 years of age, were used. After a thorough cleaning, the maxillary left and right first, second and third premolars were brushed daily for a period of 8 weeks. Subsequently, for 4 weeks, all brushing was omitted in order to establish an experimental gingivitis. After this pre-experimental period, the dogs were distributed into 3 groups of 4 dogs each: one group was brushed 7 times a week, a second was brushed 3 times a week and the third group was brushed only once a week. Brushing was carried out for 24 weeks, only on the right sides of the upper jaws, the left upper jaws serving as controls. At regular intervals, plaque index, gingival index and probing depths were assessed. A brushing effect was calculated for each dog, to include information on all within-dog and between-dog variations. The present study demonstrated that only by brushing every day can clinically healthy gingivae be obtained in the beagle dog model with experimental gingivitis at baseline. The state of gingival health at baseline may be used to determined the frequency of brushing necessary to create or maintain healthy gingivae.

Effect of Frequency of Brushing Teeth on Plaque and Calculus Accumulation, and Gingivitis in Dogs

“…There are few prior reports examining the effect of different frequencies of brushing in dogs. 2 It is not surprising that brushing more frequently is more effective in retarding accumulation of both plaque and calculus, as brushing is designed to have a mechanical cleansing effect on the surface of the teeth. 4 In a series of studies, beagle dogs with either clinically healthy gingiva or with gingivitis were brushed daily, every other day, or once weekly for 24-weeks.…”

Effect of air‐polishing devices on the gingiva: histologic study in the Canine

“…Premedication of ketamine (5 mg/1 kg) was used to gently brush the experimental teeth every other day for 3 weeks (Tromp et al 1986). Four mongrel 2-year-old dogs were used.…”

Dental Health and Diet

“…Brushing prevents plaque accumulation and the development of gingivitis. 92,95 As discussed previously, providing various types of chew materials such as rawhides, dental devices, and, possibly, some types of hard biscuits, can augment but not replace the effectiveness of brushing. For example, in studies of dogs with established gingivitis, brushing daily was effective in returning the gums to health, but brushing three times per week was not sufficient.…”

“…88,92 Current evidence shows that the frequency of brushing necessary to maintain clinically healthy gingivae depends on the initial condition of the tissue. Brushing prevents plaque accumulation and the development of gingivitis.…”