Which of the following is crucial for maintaining a pet's dental health?

Daily brushing and dental chews are vital for maintaining a pet's dental health because they provide a proactive approach to oral hygiene. Regular brushing helps to remove plaque buildup on teeth and gums, which can otherwise lead to dental disease, bad breath, and other health issues. Incorporating dental chews into a pet's routine can also assist in mechanically cleaning teeth while satisfying their natural urge to chew, thus promoting gum health.

While professional cleanings are important, they are typically performed less frequently and should not be the only method of dental care. Regular visits to the veterinarian for check-ups are essential for overall health monitoring, but they don't specifically focus on the act of daily dental care. Lastly, feeding a pet canned food only is not advantageous for dental health, as it does not provide the necessary resistance to help scrub the teeth clean like kibble or dental chews can. Therefore, a combination of daily brushing and dental chews is the most effective way to ensure that a pet's oral health is maintained over time.