Investigation of Dental Plaque, Calculus and Gingival Inflammation in Beagle Dogs

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This study was performed to investigate of dental plaque, calculus and gingival inflammation in Beagle dogs. Forty adults Beagle dogs (28 male and 12 female) were used in this study. The dogs weighed 9.5 kg and were in good oral and systemic health as determined by physical examination, and all dogs had full and normal dentition. The dogs were given a commercial pellet feed during 2 years period. For all examination procedures, the dogs were premedicated with a subcutaneous injection of atropine sulfate (0.04 mg/kg). Anesthesia was induced and maintained by intravenous administration of ketamine (8 mg/kg) and xylazine (2 mg/kg). Dental plaque, calculus and gingival inflammation were assessed by Logan and Boyce clinical plaque index. Calculi covering the maxillary carnassial and first molar teeth were extensive and were accompanied by severe gingival inflammation and pocket formation. Calculi, accompanied by gingival inflammation, were clearly evident on buccal surfaces of other teeth. Calculi didn't showed on the lingual surfaces, but linguogingival inflammation formed in premolar teeth. Although the general pattern was clear, there was considerable variation among dogs in the rate of deposition of calculus and extend of gingival inflammation. This investigation suggest that feeding of the commercial dry food without dental hygiene increase plaque accumulation and may be a contributing factor in calculi formation and periodontal disease.