Dental chews can play a meaningful role in reducing plaque and tartar on dogs’ teeth when used regularly alongside brushing, veterinary experts say.

That endorsement comes as part of advice intended to prevent the long-term consequences of untreated oral disease. Stephanie Goldschmidt, assistant professor of dentistry and oral surgery at the University of California-Davis, warned that inadequate plaque control has serious consequences: “Dental care is extremely important in dogs. Lack of plaque control leads to periodontal disease, which can cause tooth loss, chronic pain, and difficulty eating, with over 80% of dogs affected by age three.” She added that bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream, contributing to serious systemic issues that can affect overall health.

The Veterinary Oral Health Council evaluates chews, diets and products for clinical effectiveness, and the American Veterinary Dental College recommends using VOHC-approved products as part of a comprehensive dental care plan, experts said.

How chews work is primarily mechanical: the action of chewing increases contact with teeth and gums and can disrupt plaque before it mineralizes. Sarah Wooten, a veterinary expert with Pumpkin Pet Insurance, emphasized chewing time as a key factor, saying, “Dogs will get the best benefit out of their chews if they chew for five to 10 minutes or longer because the product needs to be in contact with the teeth and gums in order to remove plaque.” She added practical timing guidance: “Plaque takes three days to harden into tartar. Offer dental chews daily or every other day to reduce plaque and thus, tartar.” Pet owners can help create a routine by giving one chew per day, ideally at consistent times, such as after the dog’s walk or post-dinner, to maximize effectiveness. How can pet owners incorporate dental chews into their dog’s daily routine?

Product design can influence effectiveness. Some chews use a distinctive Z-shape that helps dogs grip and maintain contact while gnawing, and several brands promote plant-based formulations designed to reduce plaque and tartar. Those features are often cited alongside VOHC approval when manufacturers describe clinical benefits.

Veterinarians stress that chews are complementary, not a replacement for brushing. “The most effective way to keep our dog’s teeth and mouth healthy is by daily brushing,” said Jessica Herman, a veterinarian with Fuzzy. Experts recommend pairing mechanical tools such as chews with regular brushing and professional cleanings to reduce the risk of progressive oral disease. With approximately 80% of dogs experiencing dental issues by the age of three, a robust dental routine can help prevent both immediate and long-term health problems.

Pet owners looking to build a routine can find product guidance and practical tips from veterinary-focused resources; a how-to guide from Wellness Pet Food describes timing and safety considerations for integrating chews into daily care.

As officials and specialists note, the strongest outcomes come from combining approaches: choose VOHC-verified products where available, encourage adequate chewing time with appropriately sized chews, and maintain daily brushing to protect teeth and gums over the long term.

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