Just got back from a follow up with the vet concerning my poor dog's recent tooth extraction (22 of 'em!). Since we certainly don't want anything like this happening again, we'll go with the doc's reccommendation to daily brush her remaining teeth. The doggie toothpaste (poultry flavored!) is sort of expensive though. Perhaps I can find a cheaper alternative somewhere. Otherwise, guess I'll just chalk it up to responsible pet ownership.....