Dental Overkill: Is It Possible To Care Too Much For Your Pet’s Teeth?

For the most part, I’ll answer: NO! However, as always, I have some exciting examples that make me think twice about how much dental care is appropriate — and I’m a dentistry junkie.

Let me first confess: I believe only a minority of dogs can get through life comfortably without routine dental care. Studies demonstrate that even those that may never experience oral discomfort would live longer, more disease-free lives with routine brushing and/or professional cleaning.

It’s funny, then, that I recently met some dog parents who I believe go way overboard on the dental thing. In fact, they might have Münchausen by proxy syndrome.

Have you heard of this? It’s a psychiatric disorder where people invent health conditions for their loved ones and get off on the attention and satisfaction they receive from caring for them. Famous cases usually involve children but we see this in pets, too.

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