Any veterinarian will tell you using treats is never going to be as effective as brushing their teeth (if your pet(s) allow it), but do dental treats do anything at all? Or is it really just an excuse to sell you an overpriced snack product for your pet?

These treats will make claims that it cleans your cat's / dog's teeth or that it helps control tartar. A few examples:

* Greenies (for dogs) claims "Unique texture fights plaque and tartar"
* Pedigree DentaStix makes several claims:
    * Cleans teeth
    * Freshens breath
    * Clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar buildup
    * Helps clean down to the gumline to promote healthy gums
* The Kirkland Signature brand of dog dental treats claims that it cleans teeth and reduces plaque and tartar.
* Milk Bone Brushing Chews make the bold claim that it's "as effective as brushing*" (with an asterisk)

* The Feline Greenies brand claims to clean teeth and freshen breath
* Emerald Pet Feline Dental Treats claim to support clean teeth and fresh breath
* Purina Dentalife (for cats) makes a few claims:
    * Allows tooth to penetrate for an effective clean
    * Scientifically tested to reduce tartar buildup
    * Seal of approval from the Veterinary Oral Health Council (is this organization reputable?) with a claim that it helps control tartar.
* Temptations cat treats claim to help control tartar

Anything about freshining breath is a subjective claim which can be ignored, but for the rest, how much of it is marketing BS? How does the effectiveness differ between cats and dogs?