Oral health assessment in dogs: parameters and methods.

Periodontal disease is the most common disease of adult dogs. Yet, much research needs to be done to delineate the exact pathophysiology of this disease. This paper describes the development of indices to evaluate plaque, calculus, and stain and to evaluate traditional and non-traditional measures of oral hygiene in dogs. We describe and recommend specific indices that permit comparative testing of dental products so veterinarians can recommend those that are safe and have some effect on the substrates thought to contribute to or cause periodontal disease.