The Vet Dental Show

Brett Beckman
  • 5.0 (33)
  • Education
  • Updated Weekly

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 234 - Don't Extract Every Fractured Tooth

    Ready to build a veterinary dental service that improves patient care while increasing practice profitability? Enroll in our FREE RACE-accredited online veterinary dentistry course and gain practical, step-by-step training designed to help general practitioners develop confidence, improve clinical outcomes, and implement a higher standard of dental care. Get started today: https://ivdi.org/free -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- Not every fractured tooth requires extraction—but knowing when to save a tooth and when intervention is necessary is one of the most important clinical decisions in veterinary dentistry. In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman answers common questions from veterinary professionals about root fractures, periapical lucencies, vital pulp therapy, root canal treatment, and selecting the right dental burs for efficient surgical extractions. Using real clinical examples and radiographic interpretation, Dr. Beckman explains how to distinguish fractures that can safely remain from those that require extraction or endodontic treatment. He also discusses the biological principles behind vital pulp therapy, when root canal therapy is the preferred alternative to extraction, and practical equipment recommendations that improve efficiency during dental procedures. This episode provides actionable guidance for veterinarians looking to improve diagnostic confidence and treatment planning in everyday practice. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 When a fractured tooth root can safely remain without extraction 🎯 How to identify radiographic signs that indicate extraction is necessary 🎯 The difference between a normal chevron sign and a true periapical lucency 🎯 Why periodontal communication changes treatment recommendations 🎯 When root canal therapy is an appropriate alternative to extraction 🎯 How periapical disease develops and why it should never be ignored 🎯 Clinical indications and timing for successful vital pulp therapy 🎯 The biological principles behind mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) in pulp preservation 🎯 Which diamond football and crosscut burs are most useful in general veterinary practice 🎯 Practical instrumentation recommendations for efficient surgical tooth extraction Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Root fractures beneath healthy bone without periodontal involvement often do not require extraction. 🔑 Periapical lucencies indicate pulpal death and generally require either extraction or root canal therapy. 🔑 Radiographic interpretation should always be combined with probing and mobility assessment before making treatment decisions. 🔑 Vital pulp therapy offers excellent success rates when performed on appropriately selected, recently exposed teeth. 🔑 Early intervention dramatically improves the long-term prognosis for preserving strategic teeth. 🔑 Proper bur selection improves surgical efficiency while minimizing unnecessary bone removal. 🔑 Combining accurate diagnostics with appropriate treatment planning leads to better patient outcomes and long-term oral health. Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Does every root fracture require extraction? ❓ How can you determine whether a fractured root can safely remain? ❓ What does a periapical lucency indicate on dental radiographs? ❓ How do you differentiate a chevron sign from true apical pathology? ❓ When should root canal therapy be recommended instead of extraction? ❓ What are the ideal indications for vital pulp therapy? ❓ Why is timing so critical for successful pulp preservation? ❓ Which dental burs should every general veterinary practice keep available? ❓ How should radiographs guide treatment decisions for fractured teeth? -- 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/ -- veterinary tooth fractures, veterinary root fracture treatment, veterinary dental radiography, periapical lucency in dogs, veterinary root canal therapy, veterinary vital pulp therapy, fractured canine tooth treatment, veterinary tooth extraction indications, veterinary dental burs, diamond football bur veterinary dentistry, crosscut bur veterinary dentistry, veterinary endodontics, veterinary oral surgery, veterinary dentistry continuing education, veterinary dental CE, veterinary dental diagnostics, veterinary dental radiographs, veterinary dentistry podcast, veterinary dentistry training, Dr Brett Beckman

  2. Jul 15

    Episode 233 - How to Build a Profitable Veterinary Dental Service

    Ready to build a veterinary dental service that improves patient care while increasing practice profitability? Enroll in our FREE RACE-accredited online veterinary dentistry course and gain practical, step-by-step training designed to help general practitioners develop confidence, improve clinical outcomes, and implement a higher standard of dental care. Get started today: https://ivdi.org/free -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- Building an exceptional veterinary dental service requires more than purchasing equipment—it requires the right mindset, a committed team, and proven systems that can be repeated every day. In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman shares a powerful presentation on why embracing change is essential for growth and how investing in veterinary dentistry benefits patients, clients, team members, and the overall success of the practice. Drawing from real-world case studies, Dr. Beckman explains how practices dramatically increased dental revenue after investing in education, dental radiography, instrumentation, and standardized workflows. He also discusses why creating a small, dedicated dental team leads to greater consistency, confidence, and efficiency than attempting to train an entire hospital staff at once. Whether you're a practice owner, associate veterinarian, or veterinary technician, this episode provides practical strategies for building a sustainable, high-performing dental program. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 Why embracing change is essential for improving veterinary dentistry 🎯 How high-quality dentistry improves both patient outcomes and practice growth 🎯 Revenue and return-on-investment data from practices that invested in dentistry 🎯 Why dental equipment and staff education often pay for themselves quickly 🎯 The three foundational components of a successful veterinary dental service 🎯 Why a small, dedicated dental team outperforms broad cross-training 🎯 How standardized clinical workflows improve consistency and efficiency 🎯 The importance of repetition in developing speed, confidence, and clinical excellence 🎯 How technicians can help advocate for investments in veterinary dentistry 🎯 Why passion and commitment are key drivers of long-term success Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Great veterinary dentistry starts with mindset, education, and a commitment to continuous improvement 🔑 Dentistry can become one of the most profitable service areas within a general veterinary practice 🔑 Investments in dental radiography, instrumentation, and training can produce exceptional returns on investment 🔑 Dedicated dental teams develop stronger skills and greater consistency than broadly cross-trained teams 🔑 Standardized protocols improve workflow, confidence, and patient care 🔑 Repetition and structured systems accelerate mastery of veterinary dental procedures 🔑 Better dentistry benefits patients, clients, veterinary teams, and the long-term health of the practice Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Why do many veterinary practices underutilize their dental service? ❓ How profitable can veterinary dentistry become? ❓ What kind of return on investment can dental equipment and education provide? ❓ Why should practices invest in dental radiography and advanced instrumentation? ❓ How many team members should initially be dedicated to dentistry? ❓ Why is a focused dental team more effective than training the entire hospital? ❓ How do standardized workflows improve dental efficiency? ❓ What role do technicians play in building a successful dental program? ❓ How can practices develop confidence while improving their standard of care? -- 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/ -- veterinary dentistry, veterinary dental practice management, veterinary dental team, veterinary dentistry profitability, veterinary dental ROI, veterinary dental radiography, veterinary dental education, veterinary dental workflow, veterinary dental protocols, veterinary dental equipment, veterinary technician dentistry, veterinary dental training, veterinary practice growth, veterinary dentistry CE, dental practice systems, veterinary dentistry leadership, veterinary hospital profitability, veterinary dental team training, veterinary dental continuing education, Dr Brett Beckman

  3. Jul 8

    Episode 232 - Should You Ever Leave an Extraction Open?

    Ready to perform veterinary dentistry with greater confidence? Enroll in our FREE RACE-accredited online veterinary dentistry course and gain practical, step-by-step training designed to help general practitioners improve case outcomes and elevate the standard of dental care in their practice. Get started today: https://ivdi.org/free -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- Questions from practicing veterinarians often reveal the clinical challenges that come up every day in general practice, and this episode is dedicated to answering them. Dr. Brett Beckman provides practical, evidence-based guidance on some of the most common topics submitted during recent online veterinary dentistry trainings, including extraction site closure, local anesthesia, postoperative pain management, suture selection, and home-care recommendations. Throughout the episode, Dr. Beckman explains why extraction sites should almost always be debrided and closed without tension, when advanced flap techniques or referral are appropriate, and how proper surgical planning improves healing. He also shares his preferred approach to mouth gags, discusses long-acting pain management with Nocita® and Zorbium®, reviews infraorbital nerve block techniques in dogs and cats, and offers realistic recommendations for improving owner compliance with dental home care. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 Why extraction sites should almost always be debrided and sutured 🎯 When advanced flap techniques or referral become necessary 🎯 How to achieve predictable, tension-free gingival closure 🎯 A practical mouth gag solution using cut endotracheal tubes 🎯 Dr. Beckman's experience using Nocita® for postoperative dental pain 🎯 Pain management considerations for feline stomatitis patients 🎯 Why infraorbital nerve blocks anesthetize the entire maxilla in cats 🎯 Preferred reverse-cutting suture needles for dogs and cats 🎯 Home-care products that can improve long-term oral health 🎯 How VOHC-approved products help guide evidence-based recommendations Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Proper flap design and tension-free closure are essential for predictable extraction healing 🔑 Cases with insufficient attached gingiva may require advanced flap techniques or referral 🔑 Long-acting local anesthesia can improve patient comfort while simplifying postoperative care for owners 🔑 Understanding feline maxillary anatomy improves the effectiveness of infraorbital nerve blocks 🔑 Reverse-cutting needles remain the preferred choice for oral soft tissue closure 🔑 Simple, practical home-care recommendations are more likely to improve owner compliance 🔑 VOHC-approved products provide an evidence-based starting point for dental home care recommendations Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Should every extraction site be debrided and sutured? ❓ When should difficult extraction cases be referred? ❓ What mouth gag works best during veterinary dental procedures? ❓ How effective is Nocita® for postoperative dental pain? ❓ Does the infraorbital nerve block anesthetize all maxillary teeth? ❓ Which suture needles are best for veterinary oral surgery? ❓ Why is the infraorbital block especially effective in cats? ❓ Which home-care products have the strongest clinical evidence? ❓ How can veterinarians improve owner compliance after dental procedures? -- 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/ -- veterinary dentistry, veterinary dentistry Q&A, veterinary tooth extraction, veterinary dental extractions, extraction flap closure, gingival flap techniques, veterinary oral surgery, canine tooth extraction, feline tooth extraction, infraorbital nerve block, feline dental anesthesia, veterinary dental pain management, Nocita veterinary dentistry, Zorbium cats, veterinary suture techniques, reverse cutting needle veterinary, VOHC dental products, veterinary dental home care, veterinary dental CE, Dr Brett Beckman

  4. Jul 1

    Episode 231 - Why Do Your Dental Extractions Keep Failing?

    Ready to perform veterinary dentistry with greater confidence? Enroll in our FREE RACE-accredited online veterinary dentistry course and gain practical, step-by-step training designed to help general practitioners improve case outcomes and elevate the standard of dental care in their practice. Get started today: https://ivdi.org/free -- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM -- Questions from practicing veterinarians often highlight the real-world challenges encountered during dental procedures, and this episode is dedicated to answering them. Dr. Brett Beckman responds to a wide range of clinical questions submitted during recent online training sessions, covering everything from feline and canine extraction techniques to regenerative therapies, instrumentation, and surgical decision-making. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Beckman shares practical guidance for reducing complications during difficult extractions, selecting the right burs for specific procedures, preventing mandibular fractures in small breed dogs, and understanding current recommendations for guided tissue regeneration and bone grafting. He also explains why proper training, repetition, and cadaver practice are essential for developing surgical confidence and predictable outcomes. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 How feline maxillary incisor anatomy influences extraction technique compared with dogs 🎯 Strategies for safely extracting all mandibular teeth in small breed dogs while minimizing fracture risk 🎯 Why proper bone removal is critical for successful mandibular canine extractions 🎯 The importance of cadaver practice and structured training before performing advanced surgical procedures 🎯 Dr. Beckman's preferred burs for bone removal and difficult extractions 🎯 How to safely use mouth gags while reducing the risk of trigeminal nerve injury 🎯 Current recommendations for guided tissue regeneration (GTR) materials 🎯 Why PerioVive has replaced Doxyrobe in Dr. Beckman's current protocol 🎯 When Console remains an effective bone graft material in veterinary dentistry 🎯 The potential benefits of combining hyaluronic acid with bone grafts 🎯 Techniques for extracting difficult maxillary fourth premolar roots without excessive bone removal 🎯 Why patience and controlled elevation produce better surgical outcomes than excessive force Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Successful extractions rely on proper visualization, controlled bone removal, and correct instrument positioning 🔑 Surgical confidence comes from quality education, repetition, and hands-on cadaver practice 🔑 Excessive force increases complications—controlled elevation leads to more predictable outcomes 🔑 Mouth gags should never overextend the jaw regardless of procedure length 🔑 Regenerative techniques continue to evolve, making it important to stay current with clinical research 🔑 Bone graft materials primarily provide a scaffold for healing, while newer adjuncts may enhance regeneration 🔑 Magnification improves visualization of tooth movement and surgical precision during difficult extractions 🔑 Proper technique is often more important than specialized equipment when managing challenging cases 🔑 Understanding regional anatomy helps reduce root fractures and surgical complications 🔑 Continued education directly improves patient safety and clinical success Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Can feline maxillary incisors be extracted using the same approach as dogs? ❓ How can veterinarians reduce the risk of mandibular fractures during full-mouth extractions? ❓ Which burs are best suited for veterinary dental extractions? ❓ How long is it safe to leave a mouth gag in place during anesthesia? ❓ Is Doxyrobe still recommended for guided tissue regeneration? ❓ Which bone graft materials are most appropriate for general veterinary practice? ❓ Does combining hyaluronic acid with bone grafts improve periodontal healing? ❓ What techniques help prevent fracture of maxillary fourth premolar roots? ❓ Why is controlled elevation more effective than applying greater force? ❓ How does additional training improve surgical outcomes in veterinary dentistry? -- 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/ -- veterinary dentistry Q&A, veterinary tooth extraction techniques, canine dental extractions, feline dental extractions, mandibular canine extraction, veterinary bone grafting, guided tissue regeneration veterinary dentistry, PerioVive veterinary dentistry, Console bone graft veterinary, veterinary oral surgery, veterinary dental burs, veterinary extraction complications, veterinary dental CE, veterinary dentistry for general practitioners, difficult tooth extractions dogs and cats, Dr Brett Beckman veterinary dentistry

  5. Jun 24

    Episode 230 - Why Most Veterinary Dental Patients Are Still Suffering (And Owners Don't Know It)

    Looking to strengthen your veterinary dentistry skills and improve patient outcomes? Access our FREE RACE-accredited online veterinary dentistry course and join thousands of veterinary professionals advancing their dental knowledge. https://ivdi.org/free --- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM Guest: Annie Mills, LVT --- Client communication and home care compliance are among the most important factors influencing long-term success in veterinary dentistry. In this episode, Annie Mills, LVT, answers questions submitted during recent online trainings and shares practical strategies for improving client education, increasing treatment acceptance, and helping pet owners become active participants in their pet's oral health. The episode also explores evidence-based home care recommendations, including the role of Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) approved products, practical options for dogs and cats, and why home care should be viewed as an essential component of every dental treatment plan. Annie also addresses common objections to dental radiography and explains why comprehensive assessment and diagnosis must take priority over cosmetic cleaning alone. Whether you're looking to improve client communication, increase follow-up compliance, or strengthen your preventive dentistry protocols, this episode provides practical guidance you can immediately apply in general practice. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 How to communicate the need for dental extractions to pet owners 🎯 Why client education is the foundation of treatment acceptance and compliance 🎯 How dental radiographs can help owners understand periodontal disease 🎯 Why oral masses should be biopsied and diagnosed early 🎯 How proactive dentistry helps prevent silent suffering in veterinary patients 🎯 Strategies for improving compliance with follow-up examinations and professional dental care 🎯 How to use VOHC-approved products when making home care recommendations 🎯 Practical home care options for both dogs and cats 🎯 Why dental cleaning alone is not an adequate treatment plan when disease is present 🎯 How to address client concerns about dental radiography Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Well-educated clients are more likely to accept treatment recommendations and follow home care protocols 🔑 Diagnostic dental radiographs are often one of the most effective tools for improving client understanding 🔑 Advanced periodontal disease frequently requires extraction because affected teeth cannot be predictably saved 🔑 Early diagnosis and treatment help prevent progression of oral disease and unnecessary suffering 🔑 Positive patient outcomes improve client confidence and long-term compliance 🔑 VOHC-approved products provide an evidence-based approach to home care recommendations 🔑 Home care should be considered an essential part of every dental treatment plan 🔑 The primary goal of veterinary dentistry is diagnosis, treatment, and prevention—not cosmetic cleaning 🔑 Dental radiographs are necessary for proper assessment and diagnosis of oral disease 🔑 Treating disease early can help preserve teeth and reduce the need for more extensive procedures later Questions This Episode Answers ❓ How do you convince a client that a tooth needs to be extracted? ❓ How should veterinarians discuss oral masses with pet owners? ❓ What percentage of clients typically return for recommended follow-up dental care? ❓ Which home care products should veterinarians recommend to clients? ❓ What is the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) and why is it important? ❓ Are oral cleansing wipes effective for plaque control? ❓ What home care options are available for cats? ❓ Should veterinarians show before-and-after cleaning photos to clients? ❓ How do you handle clients who are resistant to dental radiographs? ❓ Why is dental cleaning alone insufficient when periodontal disease is present? --- 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/ --- veterinary client communication, veterinary dentistry client education, dental radiographs veterinary dentistry, veterinary periodontal disease, veterinary dental extractions, veterinary oral health council VOHC, veterinary home care recommendations, veterinary dental compliance, dental x-rays veterinary practice, veterinary oral masses, periodontal disease treatment dogs and cats, veterinary dental prevention, veterinary dentistry for general practitioners, veterinary dental follow up care, Annie Mills LVT, Dr Brett Beckman veterinary dentistry

  6. Jun 17

    Episode 229 - Veterinary Dentigerous Cysts Explained

    Join thousands of veterinary professionals committed to advancing their dentistry skills through our FREE RACE-accredited online course. Access expert-led training and practical techniques that can help you provide better dental care every day. https://ivdi.org/free --- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM --- Dentigerous cysts are among the most commonly overlooked dental conditions in veterinary patients, particularly in brachycephalic breeds with impacted teeth. In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman answers a series of insightful questions submitted during recent veterinary dentistry training sessions, providing practical guidance on diagnosis, treatment planning, surgical management, and long-term monitoring of dentigerous cyst cases. The discussion covers when blood clot augmentation may be beneficial during oral surgery, which patients are most at risk for developing dentigerous cysts, how these lesions progress, and what factors determine whether a case can be managed in general practice or should be referred to a veterinary dentist. Dr. Beckman also addresses concerns about recurrence, radiographic interpretation, partially erupted canine teeth, and strategies for preserving important teeth whenever possible. Whether you're evaluating a missing tooth in a young brachycephalic dog or determining the appropriate treatment plan for an impacted canine tooth, this Q&A episode provides practical clinical insights that can help improve patient outcomes and increase confidence in veterinary dental decision-making. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 When blood clot augmentation can improve healing after difficult extractions 🎯 How to manage extraction sites with limited natural bleeding 🎯 Which dog breeds are most commonly affected by dentigerous cysts 🎯 Why dentigerous cysts often remain undetected until significant bone loss occurs 🎯 How to determine whether a cyst case is appropriate for general practice management 🎯 What level of canine tooth involvement may warrant referral 🎯 How radiographic findings influence decisions to preserve or extract adjacent teeth 🎯 Why complete cyst removal is critical for long-term success 🎯 Recommended radiographic follow-up protocols after cyst treatment 🎯 Management options for partially erupted canine teeth 🎯 When surgical exposure may preserve an impacted canine tooth 🎯 Why impacted canine extractions can be challenging even for specialists Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Dentigerous cysts occur most commonly around impacted teeth, particularly mandibular first premolars in brachycephalic breeds 🔑 Boston Terriers, Pugs, and Boxers are among the breeds frequently affected 🔑 Most dentigerous cysts are not painful until infection or fistulation develops 🔑 Routine dental radiographs are often the only way to identify these lesions early 🔑 Blood clot formation can play an important role in successful healing following cyst removal and extraction 🔑 Many uncomplicated cyst cases can be successfully managed in general practice when appropriate surgical skills are present 🔑 Significant canine tooth involvement often increases case complexity and referral considerations 🔑 Complete removal of cyst lining minimizes the risk of recurrence 🔑 Postoperative radiographic monitoring is essential to confirm normal bone regeneration 🔑 Partially erupted canine teeth may sometimes be monitored rather than immediately extracted Questions This Episode Answers ❓ When should blood from a jugular sample be used to fill an extraction defect? ❓ Are dentigerous cysts painful for veterinary patients? ❓ Which breeds are at the highest risk for dentigerous cyst formation? ❓ Can general practitioners successfully treat dentigerous cysts? ❓ How much bone involvement is too much for a GP-managed cyst case? ❓ Should adjacent teeth with radiographic lucencies always be extracted? ❓ Can dentigerous cysts recur after surgical treatment? ❓ How often should cyst patients be monitored radiographically? ❓ What should be done when a canine tooth only partially erupts? ❓ Are there situations where impacted canine teeth can be preserved? --- 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/ --- dentigerous cyst dog, veterinary dentigerous cyst treatment, impacted tooth dog, impacted canine tooth veterinary dentistry, brachycephalic dog dental disease, dentigerous cyst surgery dog, veterinary oral surgery techniques, extraction site healing veterinary dentistry, blood clot grafting extraction site, canine tooth impaction treatment, veterinary dentistry CE, veterinary dental case management, veterinary dental referral guidelines, dental radiographs in dogs, veterinary oral pathology, dental cyst diagnosis, veterinary dentistry for general practitioners, Dr Brett Beckman veterinary dentistry

  7. Jun 10

    Episode 228 - Building a Better Veterinary Dental Team

    Looking to strengthen your veterinary dentistry skills and improve patient outcomes? Access our FREE RACE-accredited online veterinary dentistry course and join thousands of veterinary professionals advancing their dental knowledge. https://ivdi.org/free --- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM Guest: Annie Mills, LVT --- Building a successful veterinary dental service takes more than purchasing equipment—it requires education, team development, realistic scheduling, and a commitment to raising the standard of care. In this episode, Dr. Brett Beckman interviews Annie Mills, LVT, about the practical steps general practices can take to strengthen their dental programs before investing in advanced technology. Annie shares her recommendations for developing a focused dental team, identifying staff members who are passionate about dentistry, maximizing continuing education opportunities, and creating a foundation for long-term success. The discussion also explores the growing role of Veterinary Technician Specialists in Dentistry, the transformative impact of dental radiography, and why quality-focused dentistry ultimately leads to better outcomes for both patients and veterinary teams. Whether your practice is just beginning its dentistry journey or looking to elevate an existing service, this episode provides actionable guidance for building confidence, improving patient care, and creating sustainable growth within your dental department. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 Why education should be the first investment when developing a veterinary dental service 🎯 How to identify and cultivate dental champions within your veterinary team 🎯 The ideal structure for a dedicated dental team in general practice 🎯 Why focused CE investment often produces better clinical outcomes 🎯 Why dental radiography is essential for modern veterinary dentistry 🎯 How earlier diagnosis can help preserve teeth and improve patient quality of life 🎯 Common scheduling mistakes that contribute to stress and frustration in dentistry 🎯 Why limiting case volume improves treatment quality and team confidence 🎯 How practice leadership can better support dental teams and patient care 🎯 Practical recommendations for growing a dentistry service without burnout Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Education creates the foundation for successful implementation of advanced dental services 🔑 Team members who are passionate about dentistry often become the driving force behind departmental growth 🔑 Small, dedicated dental teams can significantly improve consistency and patient outcomes 🔑 Veterinary Technician Specialists bring valuable expertise, mentorship, and leadership to dental programs 🔑 Dental radiography reveals pathology that cannot be identified during visual examination alone 🔑 Many veterinary patients experience significant oral disease without obvious clinical signs 🔑 Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve teeth and improve long-term oral health 🔑 Dentistry should focus on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention—not simply cleaning teeth 🔑 Excessive case volume often compromises both quality and team satisfaction 🔑 Organizational support and realistic scheduling are essential for maintaining high standards of care Questions This Episode Answers ❓ What should a practice focus on before investing in dental radiography and advanced equipment? ❓ How do you identify team members who should become part of a dedicated dental team? ❓ How many technicians and veterinarians should be involved in a growing dental department? ❓ What value does a Veterinary Technician Specialist in Dentistry bring to a practice? ❓ Where can practices find qualified VTS (Dentistry) professionals? ❓ Why is dental radiography considered a minimum standard of care? ❓ How does earlier diagnosis change long-term patient outcomes? ❓ How many dental procedures should a developing practice schedule each day? ❓ What causes frustration and anxiety for veterinary teams performing dentistry? ❓ How can practice owners and managers better support dental teams? --- 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/ --- veterinary dental team development, Annie Mills VTS Dentistry, veterinary dental radiography training, veterinary dentistry CE, veterinary dental education, veterinary technician specialist dentistry, veterinary dental department setup, dental x-rays veterinary practice, veterinary dentistry standards of care, veterinary dental team training, periodontal disease diagnosis veterinary dentistry, veterinary oral health education, veterinary dentistry for general practitioners, building a veterinary dental service, Dr Brett Beckman veterinary dentistry

  8. Jun 3

    Episode 227 - The Extraction Mistake That Can Fracture a Mandible

    Looking to strengthen your veterinary dentistry skills and improve patient outcomes? Access our FREE RACE-accredited online veterinary dentistry course and join thousands of veterinary professionals advancing their dental knowledge. https://ivdi.org/free --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This week's episode tackles some of the most challenging extraction scenarios encountered in veterinary practice. Dr. Brett Beckman answers clinician-submitted questions on managing ankylosed roots, performing mandibular canine extractions safely, preventing jaw fractures, and handling complications when fractures occur during surgery. Drawing from decades of clinical and teaching experience, Dr. Beckman explains the surgical principles behind difficult extractions, including bone removal strategies, handpiece positioning, patient luxation techniques, and when referral is the best option. The discussion also highlights the importance of deliberate skill development, cadaver practice, and case selection as veterinarians build confidence in advanced dental procedures. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 How to approach extraction of ankylosed roots in veterinary patients 🎯 Why mandibular ankylosis cases can be significantly more challenging than maxillary extractions 🎯 When brachycephalic dogs with ankylosed mandibular teeth should be referred 🎯 Proper handpiece angulation during mandibular canine extractions 🎯 How bone removal improves access and reduces extraction difficulty 🎯 Why slow, sustained luxation is safer than excessive force 🎯 Realistic expectations for extraction times while developing surgical skills 🎯 How cadaver training accelerates extraction proficiency 🎯 Techniques for preventing mandibular fractures during canine extractions 🎯 What to do when a tooth fractures during extraction 🎯 Immediate management of mandibular fractures that occur intraoperatively 🎯 When conservative management may be appropriate versus referral Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Ankylosed roots require creation of a surgical tooth-bone interface through careful bone removal 🔑 Mandibular ankylosis cases often carry higher risk and greater technical difficulty 🔑 Brachycephalic dogs with mandibular ankylosis are frequently referral-level cases 🔑 Proper handpiece positioning improves visibility and allows safer bone removal 🔑 Long-duration elevation with controlled pressure reduces the likelihood of complications 🔑 Excessive torque increases the risk of mandibular fracture and extraction failure 🔑 Cadaver practice provides valuable experience before performing advanced procedures clinically 🔑 Root fractures can sometimes improve visualization and facilitate continued extraction 🔑 Hemorrhage control is an important first step when mandibular fractures occur 🔑 Advanced dentistry skills develop through repetition, training, and progressive case experience Questions This Episode Answers ❓ How do you remove ankylosed roots safely? ❓ Why are mandibular ankylosis cases more difficult than maxillary cases? ❓ When should ankylosed extractions be referred to a veterinary dentist? ❓ What handpiece angle is recommended for mandibular canine extraction? ❓ How much bone should be removed during difficult canine extractions? ❓ How long should elevator pressure be maintained during luxation? ❓ What increases the risk of mandibular fracture during extraction? ❓ What should you do if a root fractures during surgery? ❓ How do you manage a mandibular fracture that occurs during extraction? ❓ When can severely compromised mandibles be managed conservatively? --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- veterinary dental extractions, ankylosed root extraction dog, mandibular canine extraction veterinary dentistry, mandibular fracture during extraction, veterinary oral surgery, difficult tooth extractions dog, brachycephalic dental extraction, veterinary dentistry CE, canine tooth extraction techniques, veterinary dental surgery training, veterinary dentistry for general practitioners, jaw fracture prevention veterinary dentistry, root fracture management veterinary extraction, advanced veterinary dentistry, Dr Brett Beckman veterinary dentistry

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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Brett Beckman
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The Vet Dental Show

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