Reporting of dental studies involving animal models requires improvement

Studies involving animal models make a significant contribution to the evidence base. However, poor reporting of these studies undermines their value and contributes to research waste. This study aimed to assess the reporting adherence of animal studies relevant to various dental specialities in relation to the ARRIVE 2.0 guidelines. Reporting trends and associations between the reporting of studies and study characteristics were explored. An electronic database search (Medline via PubMed) to identify studies meeting the eligibility criteria published between 1st January 2018 and 31st December 2025 was performed. Independent data extraction was undertaken. Descriptive statistics, frequency distributions for the responses to each guideline item and mean values for adequate reporting per ARRIVE item were calculated. A sum score was determined by adding the responses per item and sub-questions. Univariable linear regression between overall score and study characteristics was performed. 896 studies were assessed. The mean overall reporting score was 46.7 (SD 7.7). The reporting of items pertaining to sample size, eligibility, randomisation, blinding, outcome measures, statistical methods, experimental procedures, results, animal care and monitoring and protocol registration was sub-optimal. Publication year (0.36, 95% CI 0.17–0.56; p < 0.001) was positively associated with the overall summary score indicating gradual improvements in reporting adequacy over time. The involvement of a statistician (4.11, 95% CI 1.76–6.46; p = 0.001) and reporting in relation to ARRIVE 2.0 guidelines (β = 5.97, 95% CI 4.95–6.98; p < 0.001) were associated with higher reporting scores. Despite yearly improvements the reporting of dental animal model studies is sub-optimal. Reporting of key items related to study methodology are lacking. To reduce research waste and improve research transparency a collaborated effect is required from journal editors and researchers to improve the reporting of studies involving animal models.