The Vet Dental Show

Brett Beckman

Where we dig deep into everything in general vet practice dentistry and have fun doing it. In the weekly Vet Dental Show be prepared for timely topics, off-topic rants, special interviews, and anything in between. Brett Beckman, board-certified veterinary dentist, and world-class instructor teaches general practice to help them be the best that they can be for their patients. Join him on a journey each and every Wednesday for 10 to 30 minutes of fun discussions and useful information to help unpack the myths, keep you up to date, and improve your knowledge and skills to make your patients and their parents love you even more.

  1. 6h ago

    Episode 249 - How Many Veterinary Dental Procedures Can You Do a Day?

    For the next several weeks, we're sharing exclusive Q&A sessions from The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol, recorded live during the July 2026 course. Explore the complete course and learn more about the extraction techniques discussed in this series. Learn more and enroll here: https://ivdi.org/extract -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman answers practical questions about veterinary dental scheduling, extraction efficiency, patient positioning, and building a dental team that can handle more procedures without compromising patient care. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 How to approach extraction of the maxillary second molars (110 and 210) in dogs 🎯 When adjacent maxillary first molars can provide leverage during extraction 🎯 Why some maxillary second molars require sectioning into individual roots 🎯 How to evaluate bleeding after subgingival curettage and root planing 🎯 Why minor bleeding does not necessarily indicate remaining granulation tissue 🎯 How blood contributes to PerioVive retention within periodontal pockets 🎯 How to visually confirm adequate removal of granulation tissue 🎯 Why patient positioning and operator movement are essential during dental procedures 🎯 How adjusting chair height, table height, and patient orientation improves surgical access 🎯 Why repetitive-use injuries and carpal tunnel symptoms deserve attention in veterinary dentistry 🎯 How many dental procedures to schedule when developing extraction skills 🎯 Why two dental procedures per eight-hour day may be appropriate for less experienced teams 🎯 How experienced veterinary dental teams increase daily procedure volume 🎯 Why dental efficiency depends on the entire team, not just the veterinarian Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Maxillary second molars (110 and 210) can often be extracted using controlled elevation against the adjacent first molar. Teeth with longer or more substantial roots may require sectioning and individual root removal. 🔑 Mild bleeding after subgingival curettage does not necessarily mean granulation tissue remains. Direct visualization helps determine whether debridement is complete. 🔑 PerioVive placement does not require a completely blood-free periodontal pocket. Dr. Beckman explains how blood contributes to retention of the material. 🔑 Efficient veterinary dentistry requires frequent adjustments to operator position, chair height, table height, and patient orientation to maintain visibility and access. 🔑 Repetitive hand and wrist movements can create occupational challenges. Dr. Beckman recommends consulting an ergonomics specialist for individualized guidance. Questions This Episode Answers ❓ What is the best approach for extracting maxillary second molars (110 and 210)? ❓ Can adjacent teeth be used as leverage during maxillary molar extractions? ❓ When should maxillary molars be sectioned before extraction? ❓ Does continued bleeding after subgingival curettage mean granulation tissue remains? ❓ How can veterinarians confirm complete removal of granulation tissue? ❓ Does bleeding interfere with PerioVive placement? ❓ Should veterinarians stay in one position throughout dental procedures? ❓ How should patients be positioned for better access during extractions? ❓ Can adjusting chair and table height improve dental efficiency? ❓ How can veterinary dentists reduce the risk of repetitive-use injuries? ❓ How many dental procedures should a veterinarian schedule in an eight-hour day? ❓ How much time should be allowed for complex dental extractions? ❓ How do experienced veterinary dental teams complete more procedures each day? ❓ What role do veterinary technicians play in improving dental workflow? -- Ready to take your dentistry skills further? 🎓 FREE RACE-Approved CE Course https://ivdi.org/free 🦷 Live & Online Veterinary Dental Courses https://veterinarydentistry.net/ 🛠️ Dr. Brett's Trusted Equipment & Instruments https://drbrettspets.com/ 💻 The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol https://ivdi.org/extract -- veterinary dental efficiency, veterinary dental scheduling, how many veterinary dentals per day, veterinary dentistry workflow, veterinary dental team training, veterinary dental productivity, veterinary dental extraction techniques, maxillary second molar extraction dog, dog tooth 110 extraction, dog tooth 210 extraction, veterinary dental root sectioning, subgingival curettage veterinary, periodontal granulation tissue removal, PerioVive veterinary dentistry, veterinary dental ergonomics, veterinary dental patient positioning, veterinary dental surgery efficiency, veterinary dental technician training, veterinary dental extraction course, veterinary dentistry CE, The Vet Dental Show, Dr Brett Beckman

  2. Oct 28

    Episode 248 - Are You Doing Dental Radiographs in the Wrong Order?

    For the next several weeks, we're sharing exclusive Q&A sessions from The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol, recorded live during the July 2026 course. Explore the complete course and learn more about the extraction techniques discussed in this series. Learn more and enroll here: https://ivdi.org/extract -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman explains how the order of dental radiographs, cleaning, and periodontal charting can significantly impact efficiency in veterinary dentistry. He discusses why taking radiographs first allows the dental team to identify necessary extractions, prepare client estimates, and move into surgical treatment without unnecessary delays. Dr. Beckman also answers questions about difficult hooked tooth roots, when to refer challenging extraction cases, managing extraction-site dehiscence, selecting the right instruments for different root shapes, and using adjunctive materials and medications during dental procedures. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 Why dental radiographs should be taken before cleaning and periodontal charting 🎯 Whether heavy tartar can interfere with diagnostic dental radiographs 🎯 How to organize your dental team to minimize delays between diagnostics and surgery 🎯 How to approach extractions involving severely hooked tooth roots 🎯 When a challenging extraction should be referred to a veterinary dental specialist 🎯 Why referring the entire dental case may be better for the patient 🎯 How Dr. Beckman manages extraction-site dehiscence 🎯 When Curasorb can be left in place and how it has been used with bone graft materials 🎯 Whether buprenorphine or dexmedetomidine can extend bupivacaine nerve blocks 🎯 Which tooth root shapes are best suited for a periotome or Vet-Tome 🎯 When a Luxator elevator may be more effective than a periotome Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Taking dental radiographs first allows veterinarians to identify most necessary extractions before completing cleaning and charting, improving procedural efficiency. 🔑 Heavy dental calculus generally does not interfere with radiographs, although unusually extensive palatal calculus can occasionally create superimposition. 🔑 Coordinating radiographs, estimates, cleaning, and charting helps the dental team reduce downtime and begin surgical treatment sooner. 🔑 Severely hooked tooth roots may require extensive bone removal and advanced surgical experience. Referral is appropriate when a case exceeds the veterinarian's comfort level. 🔑 Referring an entire dental case rather than only the most difficult extraction may help patients avoid multiple anesthetic procedures and postoperative recovery periods. 🔑 Dr. Beckman's approach to extraction-site dehiscence is generally to allow healing by secondary intention rather than routinely performing surgical revision. 🔑 Flat tooth root surfaces accommodate periotomes and the Vet-Tome, while rounded roots often respond better to Luxator elevators. Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Should dental radiographs be taken before or after cleaning? ❓ Can heavy tartar cause artifacts on veterinary dental radiographs? ❓ How can veterinarians improve efficiency during dental procedures? ❓ Can dental radiographs help prepare extraction estimates before charting is complete? ❓ Is complete periodontal charting necessary for teeth scheduled for extraction? ❓ How should veterinarians approach severely hooked tooth roots? ❓ When should a difficult extraction be referred to a specialist? ❓ Why might referring an entire dental case be better than referring only one tooth? ❓ Should extraction-site dehiscence be surgically repaired? ❓ Can Curasorb be left in an extraction site? ❓ Does adding buprenorphine to bupivacaine extend nerve block duration? ❓ Should a periotome be used before elevating every tooth root? ❓ When should veterinarians use a Vet-Tome instead of a Luxator elevator? -- Ready to take your dentistry skills further? 🎓 FREE RACE-Approved CE Course https://ivdi.org/free 🦷 Live & Online Veterinary Dental Courses https://veterinarydentistry.net/ 🛠️ Dr. Brett's Trusted Equipment & Instruments https://drbrettspets.com/ 💻 The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol https://ivdi.org/extract -- veterinary dental radiographs, dental radiographs before cleaning, veterinary dentistry workflow, veterinary dental efficiency, veterinary dental charting, canine dental radiographs, veterinary dental extraction techniques, hooked tooth roots dog, difficult veterinary tooth extraction, veterinary dental referral, extraction site dehiscence, secondary intention healing veterinary dentistry, Curasorb veterinary dentistry, veterinary dental nerve blocks, buprenorphine bupivacaine nerve block, periotome vs luxator, Vet-Tome extraction technique, veterinary dental instruments, veterinary dental extraction course, veterinary dentistry CE, The Vet Dental Show, Dr Brett Beckman

  3. Oct 21

    Episode 247 - Could Your Dental Flap Incision Damage a Nerve?

    For the next several weeks, we're sharing exclusive Q&A sessions from The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol, recorded live during the July 2026 course. Explore the complete course and learn more about the extraction techniques discussed in this series. Learn more and enroll here: https://ivdi.org/extract -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman answers practical questions about veterinary dental flap surgery, buccinator release, avoiding neurovascular injury, difficult maxillary extractions, dental instrument selection, periodontal treatment materials, and long-acting nerve blocks. He explains why understanding the anatomy surrounding the infraorbital foramen is essential during maxillary fourth premolar extractions, how palatal bone thickness influences root removal, and when postoperative rechecks are appropriate. Dr. Beckman also discusses the learning curve for the Vet-Tome, whether DoxyRobe adds value when using PerioVive, and why proper nerve block placement matters when using NOCITA. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 How to avoid neurovascular injury during buccinator release and maxillary fourth premolar flap surgery 🎯 Why the infraorbital neurovascular bundle is generally not at risk with proper releasing incision technique 🎯 When to schedule postoperative rechecks following surgical dental extractions 🎯 How quickly veterinarians can become comfortable using the Vet-Tome 🎯 Why maintaining the correct blade plane matters when using the Vet-Tome 🎯 How palatal bone thickness differs between maxillary canine and molar extraction sites 🎯 Why maxillary molar root extraction can be more challenging in brachycephalic dogs 🎯 Why Dr. Beckman discourages using GingerPro routinely before feline stomatitis extractions 🎯 Whether adding buprenorphine to bupivacaine extends nerve block duration 🎯 How precisely NOCITA must be placed to achieve effective regional anesthesia Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Buccinator release and properly positioned vertical releasing incisions are unlikely to damage the infraorbital neurovascular bundle when the clinician understands the anatomy and maintains appropriate tissue tension. 🔑 Postoperative recheck timing depends on the practice and procedure. Dr. Beckman notes that one-week rechecks are reasonable, although his practice does not routinely recheck uncomplicated extractions unless requested. 🔑 The Vet-Tome has a relatively short learning curve, but maintaining the blade's correct plane is important to avoid excessive torque and potential blade fracture. 🔑 Palatal bone surrounding maxillary molars is thicker than in certain maxillary canine regions. Understanding these anatomical differences helps guide bone removal and root retrieval. 🔑 GingerPro is not recommended by Dr. Beckman as a routine preoperative treatment for feline stomatitis because of concerns about inappropriate use and potential adverse effects. Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Can buccinator release damage the infraorbital neurovascular bundle? ❓ How can veterinarians avoid complications during maxillary fourth premolar flap surgery? ❓ When should patients return for rechecks after surgical extractions? ❓ How difficult is it to learn the Vet-Tome extraction technique? ❓ What causes a Vet-Tome blade to fracture? ❓ How deep can you safely create a palatal groove during maxillary molar extraction? ❓ Why are maxillary molar extractions challenging in brachycephalic dogs? ❓ Should DoxyRobe be used with PerioVive in periodontal defects? ❓ How does PerioVive remain in place after application? ❓ Should GingerPro be used before feline stomatitis extractions? ❓ Does adding buprenorphine extend the duration of bupivacaine nerve blocks? ❓ Does NOCITA require more precise placement than regular bupivacaine? -- Ready to take your dentistry skills further? 🎓 FREE RACE-Approved CE Course https://ivdi.org/free 🦷 Live & Online Veterinary Dental Courses https://veterinarydentistry.net/ 🛠️ Dr. Brett's Trusted Equipment & Instruments https://drbrettspets.com/ 💻 The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol https://ivdi.org/extract -- veterinary dental extraction, veterinary extraction mistakes, veterinary dental flap surgery, buccinator release veterinary, infraorbital nerve veterinary dentistry, maxillary fourth premolar extraction, maxillary molar extraction dog, veterinary dental root extraction, Vet-Tome extraction technique, veterinary dental instruments, veterinary dental recheck, veterinary periodontal treatment, PerioVive veterinary dentistry, DoxyRobe veterinary dentistry, NOCITA dental nerve block, liposomal bupivacaine veterinary, veterinary regional anesthesia, veterinary dental pain management, canine dental extraction, veterinary oral surgery, veterinary dentistry CE, veterinary dental training, The Vet Dental Show, Dr Brett Beckman

  4. Oct 14

    Episode 246 - Could Your Dog's Chew Toys Be Fracturing Their Teeth?

    For the next several weeks, we're sharing exclusive Q&A sessions from The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol, recorded live during the July 2026 course. Explore the complete course and learn more about the extraction techniques discussed in this series. Learn more and enroll here: https://ivdi.org/extract -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman answers practical questions about veterinary dental nerve blocks, Nocita dosing and timing, bone graft materials, preventing oronasal fistulas during maxillary canine extractions, and choosing safer chew toys for dogs with a history of tooth fractures. He explains how he incorporates long-acting local anesthesia into dental procedures, why nerve block placement and dosing matter, and how extraction technique can minimize complications in patients with significant periapical disease. Dr. Beckman also discusses synthetic bioglass for periodontal bone defects and shares practical advice for educating pet owners about hard chews, fractured teeth, and safer alternatives. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 When synthetic bioglass materials such as Consel may be appropriate for periodontal bone defects 🎯 Dr. Beckman's experience with Nocita and potential adverse reactions 🎯 Important considerations surrounding off-label Nocita use in veterinary dentistry 🎯 How long to wait after placing a dental nerve block before beginning surgery 🎯 How Dr. Beckman determines Nocita volume per injection site 🎯 Why monitoring anesthetic responses helps assess nerve block effectiveness 🎯 Why therapeutic laser use after liposomal bupivacaine placement is discouraged in this discussion 🎯 How to approach maxillary canine extractions with significant periapical disease 🎯 Why compromised bone can accompany an extracted tooth and expose an oronasal communication 🎯 How appropriate flap closure supports healing after extraction 🎯 Which common dog chews increase the risk of tooth fractures 🎯 What alternatives veterinarians can recommend to owners who resist eliminating hard chews Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Dr. Beckman continues to use Consel, a synthetic bioglass, for selected periodontal defects adjacent to teeth being preserved rather than routinely placing it in extraction sites. 🔑 Nocita nerve blocks are incorporated early in the dental procedure, typically after radiographs, without unnecessarily delaying surgery while waiting for onset. 🔑 Nocita dosing must account for the patient's total allowable dose. Dr. Beckman discusses using smaller volumes per site and reassessing block effectiveness when needed. 🔑 Dr. Beckman advises against applying therapeutic lasers to the oral cavity after liposomal bupivacaine placement because of concerns about disrupting the liposomal formulation. 🔑 During maxillary canine extraction, controlled technique and appropriate force direction help minimize additional trauma when periapical disease has already compromised surrounding bone. 🔑 Hard chew objects, including antlers and rigid synthetic bones, can contribute to painful tooth fractures. Client education is essential, particularly when owners are reluctant to change their dog's chewing habits. 🔑 Flexible chews, appropriate rubber enrichment toys, and products listed by the Veterinary Oral Health Council may provide alternatives, although no single product works for every dog. Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Does Consel cause inflammation in veterinary dental patients? ❓ When should synthetic bioglass be used for periodontal defects? ❓ Are adverse reactions to Nocita common in veterinary dentistry? ❓ Should veterinarians discuss off-label Nocita use with pet owners? ❓ How long should you wait after placing a dental nerve block? ❓ How much Nocita should be administered per injection site? ❓ Can therapeutic lasers affect liposomal bupivacaine nerve blocks? ❓ How can veterinarians reduce oronasal fistula complications during maxillary canine extractions? ❓ What happens when periapical disease has already destroyed supporting bone? ❓ Can an extraction site heal after an oronasal communication is closed? ❓ Which dog chew toys are most likely to fracture teeth? ❓ Are antlers, Nylabones, and other hard chews safe for dogs? ❓ What safer chewing alternatives can veterinarians recommend? ❓ How should veterinarians counsel owners who refuse to stop giving hard chews? -- Ready to take your dentistry skills further? 🎓 FREE RACE-Approved CE Course https://ivdi.org/free 🦷 Live & Online Veterinary Dental Courses https://veterinarydentistry.net/ 🛠️ Dr. Brett's Trusted Equipment & Instruments https://drbrettspets.com/ 💻 The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol https://ivdi.org/extract -- veterinary dental extraction, dog tooth fracture, dog chew toys broken teeth, safe chew toys for dogs, dog antlers tooth fracture, Nylabone tooth fracture, veterinary dental nerve blocks, Nocita veterinary dentistry, liposomal bupivacaine dogs, veterinary dental anesthesia, veterinary dental pain management, Consel veterinary dentistry, veterinary bone graft, maxillary canine extraction dog, oronasal fistula dog, veterinary extraction complications, canine dental extraction, veterinary oral surgery, veterinary dentistry CE, veterinary dental training, The Vet Dental Show, Dr Brett Beckman

  5. Oct 7

    Episode 245 - What Do You Do When Feline Stomatitis Won't Resolve?

    For the next several weeks, we're sharing exclusive Q&A sessions from The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol, recorded live during the July 2026 course. As a listener of The Vet Dental Show, you have a limited-time opportunity to purchase the complete course for $300 off. Learn more and enroll here: https://ivdi.org/extract -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman takes a closer look at refractory chronic feline gingivostomatitis and discusses where GingerPro may fit when cats remain symptomatic after appropriate dental extractions. Dr. Beckman walks through his approach to feline stomatitis, including the decision between full-mouth and caudal-mouth extractions, what he expects during postoperative recovery, and why the three-month mark is an important point when evaluating whether a case may be considered refractory. He then discusses GingerPro, its components, the rationale behind its use, reported clinical responses, and the potential adverse effects and other considerations veterinarians should understand before considering this off-label treatment. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 How Dr. Beckman defines and approaches chronic feline gingivostomatitis 🎯 When full-mouth extractions are preferred for feline stomatitis 🎯 When caudal-mouth extractions may be considered instead 🎯 Why canine tooth resorption can influence extraction decisions 🎯 What to monitor during recovery following stomatitis extractions 🎯 Why the three-month postoperative mark matters 🎯 When a feline stomatitis case may be considered refractory 🎯 Where adjunctive therapies may enter the treatment plan 🎯 How GingerPro is being used in refractory stomatitis cases 🎯 The role of the antiviral component EIDD-1931 discussed in the episode 🎯 Why calicivirus is relevant to the discussion of feline stomatitis 🎯 Potential adverse effects and monitoring considerations discussed for GingerPro 🎯 Why the doxycycline and meloxicam components require additional consideration 🎯 Why informed client consent and follow-up are important with off-label therapy   Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Extraction remains central to Dr. Beckman's approach to feline chronic gingivostomatitis. Full-mouth extraction is his predictable approach, while carefully selected patients without rostral inflammation may be candidates for caudal-mouth extraction. 🔑 Postoperative assessment shouldn't focus on inflammation alone. Comfort, eating, behavior, and overall function at home are important indicators of how the patient is responding. 🔑 Dr. Beckman uses approximately three months as an important clinical benchmark. Cats that remain symptomatic at that point may warrant consideration as refractory cases and evaluation for adjunctive therapy. 🔑 GingerPro is discussed as an option for refractory cases rather than a replacement for appropriate dental extraction therapy. 🔑 The formulation requires careful consideration because the components discussed in the episode—including EIDD-1931, doxycycline, and meloxicam—have their own potential adverse effects and clinical implications. 🔑 Because this use is off-label, Dr. Beckman emphasizes informed owner consent, appropriate patient selection, and follow-up monitoring. Questions This Episode Answers ❓ When is feline stomatitis considered refractory? ❓ Should cats with stomatitis receive full-mouth extractions? ❓ When can canine and incisor teeth potentially be spared? ❓ Why might canine tooth resorption affect that decision? ❓ How long should you monitor a cat after stomatitis extractions? ❓ What should recovery look like by three months? ❓ What is GingerPro and when might it be considered? ❓ How does EIDD-1931 relate to refractory feline stomatitis? ❓ What potential adverse effects should veterinarians consider? ❓ Why are doxycycline and meloxicam important considerations? ❓ Why is client consent important when using an off-label therapy? ❓ How should patients be followed after starting adjunctive treatment? -- Ready to take your dentistry skills further? 🎓 FREE RACE-Approved CE Course https://ivdi.org/free 🦷 Live & Online Veterinary Dental Courses https://veterinarydentistry.net/ 🛠️ Dr. Brett's Trusted Equipment & Instruments https://drbrettspets.com/ 💻 The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol https://ivdi.org/extract -- feline stomatitis, chronic feline gingivostomatitis, feline gingivostomatitis treatment, refractory feline stomatitis, GingerPro feline stomatitis, feline stomatitis extraction, full mouth extraction cat, caudal mouth extraction cat, feline dental extraction, cat stomatitis dentistry, feline tooth resorption, veterinary dentistry, veterinary dental surgery, veterinary oral surgery, feline dental disease, veterinary dentistry CE, veterinary dental training, veterinary dental education, The Vet Dental Show, Dr Brett Beckman

  6. Sep 30

    Episode 244 - Why Do Brachycephalic Tooth Roots Keep Fracturing?

    For the next several weeks, we're sharing exclusive Q&A sessions from The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol, recorded live during the July 2026 course. As a listener of The Vet Dental Show, you have a limited-time opportunity to purchase the complete course for $300 off. Learn more and enroll here: https://ivdi.org/extract -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman answers practical questions about difficult root tip retrieval in brachycephalic dogs, preventing root fractures, maxillary molar flap closure, and the use of PerioVive and bone graft materials in veterinary dental extraction sites. He explains why rotated 106 and 206 teeth in brachycephalic patients can make palatal root access especially challenging—and why adequate bone removal, controlled elevation, and patience are critical for reducing root fractures. Dr. Beckman also discusses whether attached gingiva must cover the distal root of the maxillary fourth premolar after M1 extraction, his perspective on Restorix versus PerioVive, and how extraction-site bleeding influences when and where he places PerioVive. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 Why 106 and 206 root retrieval can be difficult in brachycephalic dogs 🎯 How tooth rotation complicates access to the palatal root 🎯 Why adequate bone removal can reduce heavy-handed elevation 🎯 How to approach a palatal root when an apical approach isn't possible 🎯 Why a circumferential groove can help with difficult root retrieval 🎯 How excessive elevation pressure contributes to root fracture 🎯 Why patience can reduce the risk of fracturing difficult roots 🎯 How to position a diverging incision during maxillary M1 extraction 🎯 Whether attached gingiva must completely cover the distal root of PM4 🎯 Dr. Beckman's perspective on Restorix versus PerioVive 🎯 When to place PerioVive based on extraction-site bleeding Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Brachycephalic anatomy can make 106 and 206 extractions more challenging because tooth rotation may limit access to the roots, particularly the palatal root. 🔑 Adequate visualization and bone removal can reduce the force required during elevation and help minimize root fracture. 🔑 When an apical approach isn't possible, Dr. Beckman recommends creating a circumferential groove and carefully leveraging the root outward without applying apical pressure. 🔑 Increasing torque because a tooth isn't moving can turn a difficult extraction into a root tip retrieval. Controlled, patient elevation is key. 🔑 Complete gingival coverage adjacent to the distal root of PM4 may not always be achievable after M1 extraction. Appropriate flap design, remaining attached gingiva, home care, and postoperative reevaluation are important. 🔑 Dr. Beckman does not routinely recommend Restorix for general practice dentistry and discusses why he prefers the approach he uses with PerioVive. 🔑 In sites with minimal bleeding, PerioVive can be placed directly against bone. In more vascular sites, it can be incorporated as the blood clot begins to form. Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Why are 106 and 206 extractions harder in brachycephalic dogs? ❓ How should you approach a difficult palatal root tip? ❓ Can better bone removal help prevent root fractures? ❓ What should you do when you can't approach a palatal root apically? ❓ Why does excessive torque increase root fracture risk? ❓ Do you need attached gingiva around PM4 after M1 extraction? ❓ How does Restorix compare with PerioVive? ❓ When should PerioVive be placed during an extraction? ❓ Does extraction-site bleeding change how PerioVive should be used? -- Ready to take your dentistry skills further? 🎓 FREE RACE-Approved CE Course https://ivdi.org/free 🦷 Live & Online Veterinary Dental Courses https://veterinarydentistry.net/ 🛠️ Dr. Brett's Trusted Equipment & Instruments https://drbrettspets.com/ 💻 The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol https://ivdi.org/extract -- veterinary dental extraction, brachycephalic dental extraction, veterinary root tip retrieval, veterinary tooth root fracture, 106 tooth extraction, 206 tooth extraction, palatal root extraction, veterinary dental elevation, veterinary extraction complications, maxillary molar extraction, veterinary dental flap closure, PerioVive veterinary dentistry, Restorix veterinary dentistry, canine dental extraction, veterinary oral surgery, veterinary dentistry CE, veterinary dental training, The Vet Dental Show, Dr Brett Beckman

  7. Sep 23

    Episode 243 - Can a Pet Be in Dental Pain and Still Eat Normally?

    For the next several weeks, we're sharing exclusive Q&A sessions from The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol, recorded live during the July 2026 course. As a listener of The Vet Dental Show, you have a limited-time opportunity to purchase the complete course for $300 off before its official release. Learn more and enroll here: https://ivdi.org/extract -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman tackles a question veterinarians hear all the time: "My pet is eating normally, so how could they be in dental pain?" Dr. Beckman explains why significant oral pain can exist without the obvious signs owners expect to see. Pets living with chronic dental disease may continue eating, sleeping, and interacting normally, making discomfort difficult to recognize until after treatment. Often, the most compelling evidence comes at the recheck, when owners report behaviors they haven't seen in years—playing with toys again, becoming more active, eating better, or simply acting younger. He also discusses how veterinarians can communicate dental pain more effectively when owners are hesitant about treatment and why client education, testimonials, and reviews can help reinforce the value of veterinary dental care. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 How to explain dental pain when owners don't see obvious symptoms 🎯 Why eating normally does not necessarily rule out chronic oral pain 🎯 Behavioral changes owners may recognize only after dental treatment 🎯 How to frame conversations about recommended dental extractions 🎯 Why cost, anesthesia concerns, and limited education can affect treatment decisions 🎯 When Dr. Beckman considers intraoperative antibiotics for periodontal disease 🎯 Which antibiotic classes he uses in severe periodontal cases 🎯 How he manages extraction site dehiscence 🎯 When odor may influence the decision to prescribe antibiotics 🎯 Why a dehisced extraction site may be allowed to heal by second intention Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Pets with chronic oral disease may not vocalize or display obvious signs of pain. Continued eating does not necessarily indicate a comfortable mouth. 🔑 Post-treatment behavioral changes can reveal how much chronic dental disease was affecting a patient. Owners may report renewed interest in toys, increased activity, improved eating, or other behaviors that had gradually disappeared. 🔑 Client hesitation about dental treatment may involve financial concerns, anesthesia fears, or uncertainty about the significance of oral disease. Clear education helps owners make better-informed decisions. 🔑 In Dr. Beckman's practice, intraoperative antibiotics are used in a minority of periodontal cases—approximately 15%—primarily in severe presentations. He describes using beta-lactams such as a cephalosporin or ampicillin. 🔑 Extraction site dehiscence does not automatically mean another anesthetic procedure is necessary. Dr. Beckman discusses maintaining analgesia and allowing appropriate sites to heal by second intention rather than immediately attempting surgical revision. Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Can a pet be in significant dental pain and still eat normally? ❓ Why don't dogs and cats always show obvious signs of oral pain? ❓ What changes might owners notice after painful dental disease is treated? ❓ What should veterinarians tell owners who don't believe their pet is uncomfortable? ❓ When are intraoperative antibiotics used during veterinary dental procedures? ❓ Which antibiotics does Dr. Beckman use for severe periodontal cases? ❓ What should you do if a dental extraction site dehisces? ❓ Does extraction site dehiscence always require antibiotics? ❓ Should a dehisced extraction site be surgically closed again? ❓ Can veterinary oral extraction sites heal by second intention? -- Ready to take your dentistry skills further? 🎓 FREE RACE-Approved CE Course https://ivdi.org/free 🦷 Live & Online Veterinary Dental Courses https://veterinarydentistry.net/ 🛠️ Dr. Brett's Trusted Equipment & Instruments https://drbrettspets.com/ 💻 Save $300 on The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol — limited-time offer: https://ivdi.org/extract -- veterinary dental pain, dental pain in dogs, dental pain in cats, hidden dental pain pets, veterinary periodontal disease, veterinary dental client education, veterinary tooth extraction, veterinary extraction complications, extraction site dehiscence, veterinary dental antibiotics, intraoperative antibiotics veterinary dentistry, second intention healing veterinary dentistry, veterinary oral surgery, canine dental extraction, feline dental extraction, veterinary dental CE, veterinary dentistry continuing education, veterinary dentistry podcast, The Vet Dental Show, Dr Brett Beckman

  8. Sep 16

    Episode 242 - Why Do Oronasal Fistulas Happen After Extraction?

    For the next several weeks, we're sharing exclusive Q&A sessions from The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol, recorded live during the July 2026 course. As a listener of The Vet Dental Show, you have a limited-time opportunity to purchase the complete course for $300 off. Learn more and enroll here: https://ivdi.org/extract -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- Why do some maxillary canine extraction sites develop chronic oronasal fistulas—and what can you do to prevent them? In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman answers practical questions about oronasal fistulas following maxillary canine extraction, dentin bonding after dentoplasty, and extracting mandibular first molars with divergent roots in brachycephalic dogs. Dr. Beckman explains how dehiscence and surgical technique can contribute to chronic oronasal fistula formation and why prevention starts with proper extraction and closure technique. He also discusses why attempting to repair an established fistula without advanced surgical training can make the defect larger and more difficult to manage. The discussion also covers bonding exposed dentin after dentoplasty, including the use of Bond 1 SF, proper surface preparation, light curing, and why fluoride polishing paste should be avoided when bonding is planned. Finally, Dr. Beckman walks through his approach to teeth 310 and 410 when the caudal root angles toward the mandibular ramus, explaining why proper sectioning allows each root to be mobilized and extracted individually. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 Why chronic oronasal fistulas can develop after maxillary canine extraction 🎯 How dehiscence and surgical technique influence fistula formation 🎯 Why small oronasal fistulas may require surprisingly large flaps for closure 🎯 Why fistula repair should not be attempted without appropriate advanced training 🎯 How to prepare exposed dentin before applying a bonding agent 🎯 Why saliva, debris, calculus, and fluoride polishing paste can interfere with bonding 🎯 When Dr. Beckman uses one versus two coats of bonding agent 🎯 How to approach divergent roots when extracting teeth 310 and 410 🎯 Why sectioning a mandibular first molar simplifies extraction of the individual roots Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Preventing an oronasal fistula begins with careful extraction technique and appropriate flap management to reduce the risk of postoperative dehiscence. 🔑 An established oronasal fistula may require a much larger flap than the visible defect suggests, making advanced surgical technique essential for successful repair. 🔑 Exposed dentin should be clean and free of contaminants before bonding. Dr. Beckman uses Bond 1 SF following dentoplasty when bonding is indicated. 🔑 Fluoride polishing paste can interfere with the bonding process, so Dr. Beckman uses flour of pumice when bonding procedures are anticipated. 🔑 A divergent caudal root on teeth 310 or 410 does not fundamentally change the extraction approach when the tooth is properly sectioned and the roots are mobilized individually. Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Why do oronasal fistulas develop after maxillary canine extraction? ❓ How can veterinarians prevent postoperative fistula formation? ❓ What causes an extraction flap to dehisce? ❓ Should you attempt to repair a chronic oronasal fistula? ❓ Why can fistula repair make the defect larger? ❓ Which bonding agent does Dr. Beckman use after dentoplasty? ❓ How should dentin be prepared before bonding? ❓ Why should fluoride polishing paste be avoided before bonding? ❓ How should teeth 310 and 410 be extracted when the caudal root diverges? ❓ Does root divergence make mandibular first molar extraction more difficult? -- Ready to take your dentistry skills further? 🎓 FREE RACE-Approved CE Course https://ivdi.org/free 🦷 Live & Online Veterinary Dental Courses https://veterinarydentistry.net/ 🛠️ Dr. Brett's Trusted Equipment & Instruments https://drbrettspets.com/ 💻 Save $300 on The Definitive Veterinary Extraction Protocol: https://ivdi.org/extract -- veterinary dental extraction, oronasal fistula dog, veterinary oronasal fistula, maxillary canine extraction, canine tooth extraction dog, veterinary extraction complications, dental flap dehiscence, veterinary oral surgery, veterinary dental surgery, oronasal fistula repair, veterinary extraction technique, veterinary dentoplasty, veterinary dentin bonding, mandibular first molar extraction, 310 tooth extraction, 410 tooth extraction, brachycephalic dog dentistry, veterinary dentistry CE, The Vet Dental Show, Dr Brett Beckman

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About

Where we dig deep into everything in general vet practice dentistry and have fun doing it. In the weekly Vet Dental Show be prepared for timely topics, off-topic rants, special interviews, and anything in between. Brett Beckman, board-certified veterinary dentist, and world-class instructor teaches general practice to help them be the best that they can be for their patients. Join him on a journey each and every Wednesday for 10 to 30 minutes of fun discussions and useful information to help unpack the myths, keep you up to date, and improve your knowledge and skills to make your patients and their parents love you even more.

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