Mastic resin helps reduce bad breath and gum disease in dogs and cats

Abstract

Mastic, a natural resin, has long been used to prevent periodontal disease, but most studies focus on mastic extracts rather than the resin itself. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of whole mastic resin against Porphyromonas gulae-associated halitosis and inflammatory responses in vitro and in vivo. Mastic (0.06%-1%) was evaluated for bactericidal, anti-halitosis, and anti-inflammatory effects using P. gulae and macrophage cell lines. Oral mastic gel (5%) was applied daily in dogs and cats with P. gulae-positive periodontal disease. Mastic reduced P. gulae viability in a dose-dependent manner and rapidly inhibited hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan, the main halitosis factors, within five minutes. It also significantly suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling. In clinical trials, daily mastic treatment for one month decreased halitosis, gingivitis, plaque accumulation, and P. gulae activity in both dogs and cats. The effect on plaque was more pronounced in cats, suggesting species-specific responses. No cytotoxicity was observed. These findings demonstrate that oral administration of whole mastic resin provides rapid antibacterial, anti-halitosis, and anti-inflammatory effects, supporting its potential as a therapeutic option for managing periodontal disease in companion animals.