Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry “The podcast for veterinary dental teams—hosted by Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry).”

Benita Altier
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Hosted by Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry), Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry brings real-world insight to the challenges faced by today’s veterinary dental teams. Each episode features in-depth conversations with Diplomates of the American Veterinary Dental College and Veterinary Technician Specialists in Dentistry, exploring common clinical conditions, dental pathologies, surgical techniques, anesthesia considerations, and patient-care safety. Using a case-report approach, Benita guides focused discussions that help practitioners connect evidence-based knowledge to everyday clinical practice—so teams can deliver safer, smarter, and more effective dental care.

Episodes

  1. 23 HR AGO

    Full Mouth Extractions for FCGS: Is It the Only Option? with Dr. Maria Soltero Rivera

    Chronic Feline Gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is one of the most painful and frustrating oral diseases encountered in feline patients. Cats with FCGS often suffer from severe oral inflammation, difficulty eating, weight loss, and chronic pain — leaving veterinary teams and cat caregivers searching for answers. For many patients, full-mouth or near full-mouth extractions remain the gold standard treatment. But is surgery always the answer? And why do some cats continue to struggle even after extractions? In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, host Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry) is joined by Dr. Maria Soltero Rivera to discuss the evolving science behind feline chronic gingivostomatitis and what current research reveals about this complex disease. Together they explore: • What FCGS actually is and why it develops • The immune-mediated nature of the disease • The possible role of chronic viral infection and the oral microbiome • Why full-mouth extractions are often recommended • What veterinary teams should expect after surgery • How to communicate extraction recommendations to cat owners • Treatment options for refractory cases • Emerging therapies including mesenchymal stromal cell therapy • The future of personalized treatment approaches for FCGS patients This episode provides practical clinical insight for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, students, and anyone involved in the care of feline dental patients. If you’ve ever struggled with an FCGS case — or helped guide a client through the difficult decision of full-mouth extractions — this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Show Resources: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1098612X231186834?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20% www.avdc.org  www.avdt.us #VeterinaryDentistry #VetMed #VeterinaryTechnician #FelineMedicine #CatDentistry #FCGS #VeterinaryPodcast www.avdc.org www.avdt.us https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ @pawsitivedental www.pawsitivedental.com

    1hr 10min

  2. 18 APR

    How Veterinary Dentistry Became a Specialty (Part 1) | A 50-Year Journey with Dr. Eisner

    This episode explores the history of veterinary dentistry and how the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) and the Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians (AVDT) became recognized specialties. What did veterinary dentistry look like 50 years ago… and how did it evolve into the advanced specialty we practice today? In Part 1 of this two-part series, Dr. Edward Eisner takes us on a firsthand journey through the transformation of veterinary dentistry in the United States. From a time when dentistry was often overlooked… to the formation of organized leadership, education, and specialty recognition — this episode captures the pivotal moments that shaped the field. Dr. Eisner shares the inside story of how the American Veterinary Dental Society was formed, and how the specialty ultimately gained recognition through the American Veterinary Dental College under the American Veterinary Medical Association and its American Board of Veterinary Specialties. We also explore his 40-year relationship with Peter Emily, a human dentist whose mentorship and collaboration helped elevate veterinary dentistry worldwide. And in a defining moment for the veterinary team, Dr. Eisner discusses his role in helping establish the Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians — alongside 12 pioneering technicians — creating the pathway for the Veterinary Technician Specialty in Dentistry, recognized through the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America and the Committee on Veterinary Technician Specialties. This episode is more than history — it’s the story of how a specialty was built. 👉 In Part 2, Dr. Eisner shares what he’s working on today, the passion projects that continue to drive him, and his vision for where veterinary dentistry is headed over the next 50 years. KEY TOPICS COVERED veterinary dentistry history, AVDC, American Veterinary Dental College, veterinary dental specialty, AVDT, Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians, NAVTA, veterinary technician specialty dentistry, veterinary dental education, animal dentistry evolution, dental care for pets, veterinary oral health, periodontal disease in dogs and cats, veterinary CE dentistry WHO THIS EPISODE IS FOR • Veterinarians interested in dentistry • Veterinary technicians and VTS (Dentistry) candidates • Practice owners looking to elevate dental standards • Students exploring veterinary specialties • Anyone passionate about improving oral health in animals WHY THIS MATTERS Understanding the history of veterinary dentistry helps clinicians: • Improve diagnostic and treatment decisions • Appreciate the evolution of standards of care • Advocate for better dentistry in general practice • Elevate patient outcomes through education and awareness Show Resources: https://avdc.org/ https://www.avdt.us/ https://veterinarydentistry.org/ https://peteremilyfoundation.org/ Zoo and Wild Animal Dentistry Peter P. Emily DDS,, Edward R. Eisner AB, DVM, First published:19 March 2021 Print ISBN:9781119545811 |Online ISBN:9781119545804 |DOI:10.1002/9781119545804 © 2021 John Wiley & Sons, Inc  https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/book/10.1002/9781119545804 https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ @pawsitivedental www.pawsitivedental.com

    45 min

  3. 1 APR

    "Veterinary Dentistry is a Team Sport" with Kris Bannon FAVD, DAVDC

    In this episode, host Benita Altier explores how successful veterinary dental care requires coordinated teamwork across the entire practice with Dr. Kris Bannon, a board-certified dental specialist and former president of the American Veterinary Dental Society. From front desk receptionists screening for oral-nasal fistulas to technicians managing critical anesthesia monitoring, every team member plays a vital role—and the two-technician-per-patient model is non-negotiable for patient safety. Dr. Bannon emphasizes the importance of strong diagnostic training for general practitioners, appropriate referral relationships with specialists, and management support for sustainable dental programs. Guest: Dr. Kris Bannon, DVM, DAVDC, Fellow of the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry  #veterinarydentistry #podcast #dvm #veterinarian  #veterinaryadvice #veterinarytechnician #veterinaryteam #veterinaryassistant  #veterinarymedicine  Organizations & Resources: Dr. Kris Bannon DVM, FAVD, DAVDC https://vetdentistrynm.com/ Find Pawsitive Dentistry: Benita Altier LVT, VTS (Dentistry) https://pawsitivedental.com/ https://facebook.com/pawsitivedental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ @pawsitivedental www.pawsitivedental.com

    1hr 11min

  4. 16 MAR

     On the Front Lines of Periodontal care, Why Veterinary Technicians Have a Critical Role.

    In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, host Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry) sits down with Heidi Olivier, CVT, VTS (Dentistry) to explore the essential role veterinary technicians play in the treatment of periodontal disease. PerioVive Research Hyaluronic Acid Literature Review: Recently published in the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry.Hyaluronic Acid Literature Review: Recently published by Pilloni on HA in periodontal therapy.Stomatitis Study Research Proceedings: Presented at the Veterinary Dental Forum this year by PIs Bonnie Shope and Jamie Anderson.Tella 2023: Class II FurcationsShirakata 2022: Class III FurcationsShirakata 2021: Two-Wall Intrabony DefectsShirakata 2021: Gingival RecessionGegout 2023: Probing pocket depth across therapies - human meta-analysis.https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ @pawsitivedental www.pawsitivedental.com

    54 min

  5. 4 MAR

    "Tooth Fractures in Dogs and Cats and the Veterinary Technicians Role in Endodontics" with Amy Edwards RVT VTS Dentistry

    Tooth fractures are among the most common findings in veterinary dentistry — and among the most painful conditions our patients experience. In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, host Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry), is joined by Amy Edwards, RVT, VTS (Dentistry), to discuss the veterinary technician’s role in recognizing tooth fractures, understanding fracture classifications, and supporting the dental team in caring for fractured teeth in dogs and cats. Together, they discuss how technicians can identify potential pulp exposure, obtain and interpret diagnostic dental radiographs, support endodontic procedures, and educate clients on treatment options and fracture prevention. This conversation highlights how veterinary technicians elevate patient care through strong dental assessments, teamwork, and client communication. Find Pawsitive Dental Education at https://pawsitivedental.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ @pawsitivedental www.pawsitivedental.com

    1hr 11min

  6. 21 FEB

    Dentistry on the Wild Side with Loic Legendre

    Dentistry on the Wildside | Wildlife, Zoo & Exotic Animal Dentistry with Dr. Loïc Legendre What does it take to perform dentistry on a tiger… a bear… or a rabbit? In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, I sit down with Loïc Legendre, DVM, DAVDC, DEVDC, AVDC-ZWD, a globally respected boarded veterinary dentist with advanced credentials in Zoo and Wildlife Dentistry. Dr. Legendre practices at West Coast Veterinary Dental Services Ltd., a specialty dental referral center, where he works alongside another boarded dentist and two residents. His areas of interest include orthodontics, maxillofacial reconstruction, companion exotic dentistry, and wildlife dentistry across the globe. In this episode, we discuss: • Wildlife and zoo dentistry — what really happens behind the scenes • The importance of meticulous planning before high-risk procedures • The team approach required for zoo and conservation work • When you must be ready — and when you’re not • Rabbit and rodent dental disease (and common mistakes) • Improvisation in remote and international settings • What veterinary professionals can learn from comparative mammology • The pathway to board certification and wildlife dentistry And yes… he answers the question: 👉 “What is the weirdest thing you’ve ever found inside the oral cavity of an animal that didn’t belong there?” This episode is both inspiring and practical for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, students, and anyone passionate about advancing veterinary dentistry across species. Because dentistry — whether in a Labrador, a rabbit, or a lion — demands preparation, discipline, and respect for anatomy. 🎓 Learn more about continuing education and resources at: www.pawsitivedental.com 📲 Connect with me: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | TikTok https://pawsitivedental.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental/ https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ @pawsitivedental www.pawsitivedental.com

    57 min

  7. 1 FEB

    Dental Care for Aging Pets, Clinical Decisons that Matter with Dr. Heidi Lobprise DAVDC

    Dr. Lobprise is a 1983 Texas A & M graduate. She became board-certified in dentistry in 1993 after 20 years of practice. After 10 years in industry and teaching, she returned to dental specialty practice in 2014, semi-retired. She is the author/co-author of three dental texts, has written many chapters and articles, and has lectured internationally. She also written articles and chapters and lectured about senior pet care, including the newly released Small Animal Senior Care – Clinical Companion to Five Minute Veterinary Consult.  She contributed to the 2023 AAHA Senior Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats, two dental guidelines, and serves on the Grey Muzzle Advisory Board.  This episode explores the many ways veterinary professionals can advocate for senior pets while providing safer, more comprehensive oral and dental care to improve the quality of life for these patients. Don't miss these concepts that will help you take your knowledge of dental care for aging dogs and cats to the next level of understanding and expertise. Homepage | The Grey Muzzle Organization  VETGuardian - Zom•Dx Safe Pet Anesthesia - Safe Pet Anesthesia https://www.cibolocreekvethospital.com/patient-resources/patient-forms/dentistry-oral-surgery-referral-form/ https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ @pawsitivedental www.pawsitivedental.com

    56 min

  8. 15 JAN

    "Reading Between the Roots" Common Interpretation Errors in Veterinary Dental Radiography

    Dental radiographs only improve patient care if we understand what we’re truly seeing. In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, Benita Altier is joined by Brenda Mulherin, DVM, DAVDC, boarded veterinary dentist, professor at Iowa State University, and author of Veterinary Oral Diagnostic Imaging, for an in-depth discussion on common interpretation errors in veterinary dental radiography. Together, they explore why image quality matters, how cognitive bias leads to misinterpretation, the importance of a repeatable interpretation system, and how confirming findings across multiple views prevents missed or inappropriate treatment. The conversation also tackles the challenges of recognizing normal anatomy, interpreting tooth resorption, and building long-term confidence when reading dental radiographs. This episode is essential listening for veterinary professionals who want to improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce uncertainty, and make better clinical decisions at the dental table. https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ @pawsitivedental www.pawsitivedental.com

    57 min

  9. 29/12/2025

    "The Perfect Partnership" The General Practice-Dental Specialty Referral Relationship

    In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, host Benita Altier sits down with Dr. Naomi Hoyer, DVM, DAVDC, to explore the vital relationship between general practitioners and specialty veterinary dentistry. Together, they discuss how to recognize when a dental referral is appropriate, what the referral process actually looks like, and how collaborative case management can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved — the general practitioner, the client, and most importantly, the patient. Dr. Hoyer shares real-world case examples, practical decision-making tips, and insight into how referral partnerships enhance patient care while strengthening trust between veterinary teams. Whether you’re unsure when to refer, curious about what happens after the referral, or looking to build stronger specialty relationships, this episode provides clarity, confidence, and actionable guidance. Key Takeaways: How to identify cases that benefit from dental specialty referralWhat to expect before, during, and after the referral processWhy referrals improve patient outcomes and client trustHow collaboration supports long-term practice successhttps://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ @pawsitivedental www.pawsitivedental.com

    42 min

  10. SEASON 1, EPISODE 1 TRAILER

    Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Introduction

    Welcome to Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast | Episode 0 Join host Benita Altier, a Licensed Veterinary Technician and Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in Dentistry, as she introduces the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast. Discover the often-overlooked importance of dental health in pets and get a preview of in-depth discussions with leaders in the field. Learn about dental pathology, radiology, anesthesia, practice growth strategies, and more. Get ready to enhance your veterinary practice with insights from top professionals like Dr. Naomi Hoyer of Colorado State University, coming next in episode two! Follow us for practical, real-world education to elevate your veterinary dentistry care. https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ @pawsitivedental www.pawsitivedental.com

    3 min

Trailer

About

Hosted by Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry), Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry brings real-world insight to the challenges faced by today’s veterinary dental teams. Each episode features in-depth conversations with Diplomates of the American Veterinary Dental College and Veterinary Technician Specialists in Dentistry, exploring common clinical conditions, dental pathologies, surgical techniques, anesthesia considerations, and patient-care safety. Using a case-report approach, Benita guides focused discussions that help practitioners connect evidence-based knowledge to everyday clinical practice—so teams can deliver safer, smarter, and more effective dental care.

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