The Vet Dental Show

Latest Episodes:

Episode 187 - From Frustration to Fantastic: Nerve Blocks, Loupes & Sharpening Made EASY! Aug 27, 2025

Show notes

https://ivdi.org/inv Transform your veterinary dental practice! Request an invite to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program today.

Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT

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Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM, Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist

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In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Annie Mills, LVT, VTS (Dentistry), answers pressing questions about nerve blocks, loupes, and instrument sharpening, providing practical tips to elevate your veterinary dentistry skills.

What You'll Learn: ✅ The *exact* timing for nerve block administration to guarantee effective pain control. ✅ How to select the right loupes to eliminate eye strain and maximize precision. ✅ Simple, effective instrument sharpening techniques that save time and effort. ✅ Proven workflow optimizations to streamline your dental procedures. ✅ How your equipment purchases can support free dental care for shelter animals.

Key Takeaways: ✅ Timing is everything: Administer nerve blocks *after* radiographs to target specific areas effectively. ✅ Loupes are an investment in your vision and your patients' well-being – choose wisely! ✅ Sharp instruments are safer, more efficient, and reduce fatigue. ✅ Dr. Brett's Pets is a valuable resource for equipment and education. ✅ A streamlined workflow benefits both your team and your patients.

Stop guessing and start excelling! Request your invite to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program today: https://ivdi.org/inv

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What are your biggest "aha!" moments from this episode? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments!

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Veterinary Dentistry, Nerve Blocks, Dental Loupes, Instrument Sharpening, Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Continuing Education, Dr. Brett's Pets, Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program, Small Animal Dentistry, Dental Workflow, Veterinary Oral Surgery, Pain Management, Dental Instruments, Veterinary Education, Dental Techniques

Episode 186 - Electrosurgery for Gingival Hyperplasia & Post-Extraction Care Aug 20, 2025

Show notes

https://ivdi.org/inv Ready to elevate your veterinary dentistry skills? Request an invitation to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program!

Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT

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Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, Board Certified Veterinary Dentist

In this episode of the Vet Dental Show, Annie Mills, LVT VTS (Dentistry), addresses common questions about electrosurgery for gingival hyperplasia, post-extraction protocols, and pain management, providing practical insights for veterinary professionals.

What You'll Learn ✅ The dangers of using electrosurgery for gingival hyperplasia and why a scalpel is preferred. ✅ Proper charging protocols for post-extraction X-rays and regional blocks. ✅ The importance of blood clots in post-extraction sites and when to use hemostatic agents. ✅ Effective pain management strategies, including CRI protocols and take-home medications when NSAIDs are contraindicated. ✅ The limited benefits of fluoride treatments in veterinary dentistry.

Key Takeaways ✅ Electrosurgery can cause significant tissue and bone damage due to heat, making a scalpel a safer option for gingival excisions. ✅ Always charge for each post-extraction X-ray and each quadrant receiving a regional block to ensure proper compensation for your services. ✅ A blood clot is the best bone graft for post-extraction sites; avoid routine use of hemostatic agents unless emergent bleeding occurs. ✅ Manage wind-up pain effectively with CRIs of buprenorphine and lidocaine (cats) or hydromorphone, lidocaine, and ketamine (dogs), along with appropriate loading doses. ✅ When NSAIDs are contraindicated, fentanyl and gabapentin can be a powerful combination for pain management.

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Don't miss out on the opportunity to become a leader in veterinary dentistry! Request your invitation to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program today: https://ivdi.org/inv

What are your experiences with electrosurgery or post-extraction complications? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!

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Keyword Tags Veterinary Dentistry, Electrosurgery, Gingival Hyperplasia, Tooth Extraction, Post-Extraction Care, Regional Blocks, Pain Management, Veterinary Anesthesia, IVDI, Brett Beckman, Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program, Veterinary Medicine, Dog, Cat, Oral Surgery, Dental Radiography, Hemostatic Agents, Wind-Up Pain, NSAIDs, Fentanyl, Gabapentin, Fluoride Treatments

Episode 185 - Nerve Blocks, Anesthesia, and Pain Management in Veterinary Dentistry Aug 13, 2025

Show notes

https://ivdi.org/inv Elevate your veterinary dentistry skills! Request an invitation to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program Today.

Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT

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Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, Board Certified Veterinary Dentist

In this episode of the Vet Dental Show, Annie Mills, LVT VTS (Dentistry), delve into essential aspects of veterinary dental practice, including nerve block techniques, anesthesia protocols, and comprehensive pain management strategies. Learn how to optimize patient comfort and outcomes in your practice.

What You'll Learn: ✅ Various nerve block injection techniques and their effectiveness. ✅ The role of veterinary technicians in administering nerve blocks. ✅ Strategies for encouraging doctors to utilize nerve blocks more frequently. ✅ Considerations for using nerve blocks before probing in cases of known pathology. ✅ Safe and effective anesthesia protocols, including light anesthesia techniques. ✅ Comprehensive pain management strategies, including the use of nerve blocks and post-operative medications.

Key Takeaways: ✅ Nerve Block Techniques: There are multiple effective nerve block techniques; consistency and proper training are key. ✅ Technician Empowerment: Technicians can and should administer nerve blocks to improve workflow and patient care. ✅ Light Anesthesia Benefits: Light anesthesia techniques can reduce anesthetic compromise and improve patient recovery. ✅ Comprehensive Pain Management: Combine nerve blocks with post-operative pain medications for optimal pain control. ✅ Individualized Pain Protocols: Tailor pain management protocols to the specific procedure and patient needs.

Interested in becoming a leader in veterinary dentistry? Request your invitation to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program: https://ivdi.org/inv

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Questions?

What are your go-to pain management techniques in veterinary dentistry? Share your insights in the comments below!

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veterinary dentistry, vet dental, dog teeth, cat teeth, nerve blocks, anesthesia, pain management, veterinary technician, dental procedures, light anesthesia, IVDI, Dr. Brett Beckman, veterinary education, vet continuing education, small animal dentistry, oral pain, post-operative care

Episode 184 - Fractured Roots, Hyaluronic Acid, and Deciduous Extractions Aug 06, 2025

Show notes

Ready to elevate your veterinary dentistry skills? Learn to confidently interpret dental radiographs and improve your diagnostic skills! https://ivdi.org/rad

Request your invite to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program: https://ivdi.org/inv

Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT

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Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, Board Certified Veterinary Dentist

In this episode of the Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman tackles common challenges in veterinary dentistry, including managing fractured root tips, the use of hyaluronic acid in periodontal treatment, and best practices for deciduous tooth extractions. Tune in to refine your techniques and improve your patient outcomes.

What You'll Learn: ✅ How to manage fractured root tips during extractions, especially in mandibular premolars. ✅ The benefits and application of hyaluronic acid (Perio Vibe) in periodontal defects. ✅ Considerations for extracting resorbing incisor roots. ✅ Proper techniques for deciduous tooth extractions, including differences between maxillary and mandibular teeth. ✅ The role of veterinary technicians in periodontal pocket cleaning and curettage.

Key Takeaways: ✅ Bone Removal is Key: Remove sufficient bone during extractions to prevent fracturing root tips and pushing them into the mandibular canal. Aim for "baby butt clean" roots. ✅ Hyaluronic Acid Benefits: Hyaluronic acid aids in tissue regeneration and bone growth in periodontal defects, potentially preventing future extractions. ✅ Deciduous Extraction Techniques: Use appropriate techniques for deciduous extractions to avoid damaging developing adult teeth. ✅ Technician Training: Properly trained veterinary technicians can effectively perform periodontal pocket cleaning. ✅ Dr. Brett's Pets: Utilize DrBrettsPets.com as a resource for vetted dental instruments and supplies.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to deepen your knowledge of radiographic interpretation! https://ivdi.org/rad

Questions?

What are your biggest challenges in veterinary dentistry? Share your questions and experiences in the comments below!

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veterinary dentistry, vet dental, dog teeth, cat teeth, tooth extraction, fractured root, hyaluronic acid, Perio Vibe, periodontal disease, deciduous teeth, radiographic interpretation, veterinary technician, dental instruments, Dr. Brett Beckman, IVDI, veterinary education, vet continuing education, small animal dentistry

Episode 183 - Veterinary Dental Extractions: Mastering Perio Pockets, Positioning & Hyaluronic Acid Jul 30, 2025

Show notes

Struggling to read dental x-rays with confidence? https://ivdi.org/rad

Unlock the secrets of radiographic interpretation in our FREE training – perfect for techs and vets alike!

Want to stand out in veterinary dentistry? https://ivdi.org/inv

Take your skills to the next level with the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program — our most comprehensive training yet.

Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT

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Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, Board Certified Veterinary Dentist

In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman guides you through the essential techniques for successful veterinary dental extractions. You'll master periodontal pocket management, learn the importance of proper patient positioning, and discover the benefits of hyaluronic acid application for enhanced dental procedures.

What You'll Learn:

✅ How to identify periodontal pockets using a periodontal probe.

✅ The technique for curettage to remove granulation tissue from periodontal pockets.

✅ The application of hyaluronic acid for pocket management.

✅ Why hyaluronic acid is a superior alternative to Doxyrobe.

✅ Proper patient positioning for various dental extractions (mandibular canine, first molar, maxillary first molar).

✅ How technicians should assist in patient positioning for optimal exposure.

✅ Incision techniques for canine extractions.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Bleeding on probing indicates the presence of granulation tissue in periodontal pockets.

✅ Curettage is essential for removing diseased tissue and promoting healing.

✅ Hyaluronic acid is easy to apply and promotes tissue regeneration.

✅ Correct patient positioning is crucial for successful extractions and suturing.

✅ Proper technician assistance ensures optimal visibility and efficiency during procedures.

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What are your biggest challenges with managing periodontal pockets or performing extractions?

Share your questions and experiences in the comments below!

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Keyword Tags:

Veterinary Dentistry, Surgical Extractions, Radiographic Interpretation, Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program, Periodontal Disease, Dental Radiography, Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Brett Beckman, IVDI, Hyaluronic Acid, Curettage, Patient Positioning, Veterinary Dental Care, General Practice, Doxyrobe, Veterinary Dental Extractions

Episode 182 - Unlock Extraction Success: Radiography & Surgical Tips Jul 23, 2025

Show notes

Want to feel more confident reading dental x-rays? Join our FREE training on radiographic interpretation! https://ivdi.org/rad

Ready to elevate your veterinary dentistry skills? Request an invite to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program: https://ivdi.org/inv

Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT

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Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, DAVDC, FAVD

In this episode, we tackle key aspects of surgical extractions and radiographic interpretation. Learn practical tips to enhance your dental procedures and improve patient outcomes.

What You'll Learn: ✅ How to determine the best time to perform an extraction. ✅ Proper patient positioning for comfortable and efficient extractions. ✅ Optimal incision placement for effective flap creation. ✅ Correct instrument handling, from scalpel to diamond bur. ✅ Techniques for successful root tip removal. ✅ How to approach radiographic interpretation. ✅ Treatment options based on owner compliance and bone loss severity. ✅ The importance of curettage and hyaluronic acid in periodontal defect management.

Key Takeaways: ✅ Knowing when to extract is crucial for efficient case management. ✅ Patient positioning significantly impacts extraction ease. ✅ Proper debridement of granulation tissue is essential for preventing disease progression. ✅ Owner compliance plays a vital role in determining treatment success. ✅ Hyaluronic acid can be a valuable tool in managing minor bone loss.

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What are your biggest challenges with surgical extractions? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!

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veterinary dentistry, surgical extractions, radiographic interpretation, vet dental show, Brett Beckman, DVM, DAVDC, FAVD, periodontal disease, dental extractions, veterinary education, veterinary CE, IVDI, dental radiography, root tip removal, hyaluronic acid, curettage, bone grafting, veterinary practice, general practice, veterinary technician

Episode 181 - Dental Deep Dive: Bone Grafts, Doxirobe, and Follow-Ups Jul 16, 2025

Show notes

If you're passionate about veterinary dentistry and want to take your skills to the next level, request an invitation to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program here: https://ivdi.org/inv

Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT

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Ready to elevate your veterinary dentistry skills? Join us as we dive deep into bone grafting techniques, Doxirobe applications, and essential follow-up protocols.

Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, Board Certified Veterinary Dentist

Episode Introduction: In this episode, we tackle common questions about bone grafting materials, the use of Doxirobe, and post-operative care. Learn practical tips to enhance your dental procedures and improve patient outcomes.

What You'll Learn: ✅ What bone graft is made of and the possibility of allergic reactions. ✅ The benefits of Doxirobe over Clindoral in specific dental procedures. ✅ Why Doxirobe is used in conjunction with bone grafting. ✅ The necessity and frequency of follow-up radiographs post bone graft. ✅ How to manage the cost of bone grafting for clients with financial constraints. ✅ Criteria for performing open root planning and bone grafting.

Key Takeaways: ✅ Consil, a biosynthetic glass, is a safe and effective bone grafting material with minimal risk of allergic reactions. ✅ Doxirobe acts as a membrane to hold bone graft in place and prevent granulation tissue. ✅ Follow-up radiographs post bone graft are crucial, but full mouth radiographs may not always be necessary. ✅ Consil is a cost-effective alternative to cancellous bone, making it more accessible for clients. ✅ Bone grafting is typically reserved for more advanced periodontal defects with significant bone loss.

What are your biggest challenges with bone grafting? Share your questions and experiences in the comments below!

Keyword Tags: Veterinary Dentistry, Bone Grafting, Doxirobe, Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program, Periodontal Disease, Dental Radiography, Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Brett Beckman, IVDI, Consil, Open Root Planning, Veterinary Dental Care

Episode 180 - Decoding Feline Juvenile Periodontitis: Causes, Treatment & Expert Insights Jul 09, 2025

Show notes

Ready to master veterinary dentistry? Request your invitation to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program: https://ivdi.org/inv

Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT

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Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, DAVDC, DAVDC-OMFS, is a board-certified veterinary dentist and oral surgeon dedicated to advancing dental care in veterinary practice.

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In this episode, Dr. Beckman tackles feline juvenile onset periodontitis, offering clarity on its etiology, diagnostic considerations, and therapeutic approaches. Gain valuable insights into making informed extraction decisions and managing challenging cases.

What You'll Learn ✅ The root cause of feline juvenile onset periodontitis and its similarities to general periodontal disease. ✅ Why the immune system plays a critical role in the rapid progression of this condition. ✅ Whether certain breeds are more prone to developing juvenile onset periodontitis. ✅ If medications like anti-inflammatories are beneficial before extractions for severe gingivitis. ✅ The importance of identifying and addressing retained root tips through post-operative radiographs. ✅ How to interpret radiographic signs of bone loss and furcation involvement. ✅ The factors that influence the decision to extract teeth affected by juvenile periodontitis.

Key Takeaways ✅ Aggressive Progression: Feline juvenile onset periodontitis is characterized by rapid and severe tissue destruction. ✅ Immune Response: An overactive immune response to plaque antigens drives the disease process. ✅ Breed Predisposition: Exotic breeds with dental crowding may be more susceptible. ✅ Limited Medication Impact: Medications offer minimal benefit in improving tissue viability before extractions. ✅ Radiographic Vigilance: Post-operative radiographs are crucial for detecting retained root tips. ✅ Extraction as a Solution: Early extraction may be the best course of action to prevent further bone loss and disease progression. ✅ Furcation Involvement: Significant bone loss in the furcation area often indicates the need for extraction.

Transform your veterinary dentistry skills! Request your invitation to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program now: https://ivdi.org/inv

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What are your biggest challenges in managing feline dental cases? Share your questions and experiences in the comments below!

feline juvenile periodontitis, veterinary dentistry, Brett Beckman, Vet Dental Show, tooth extraction, retained root tips, dental radiographs, furcation involvement, gingivitis, veterinary technician, dental disease, IVDI, Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program, cat dentistry, stomatitis, exotic breeds, dental crowding, periodontal disease, veterinary education, continuing education

Episode 179 - Mastering Difficult Extractions & Avoiding Dental Disasters Jul 02, 2025

Show notes

Ready to take your veterinary dentistry skills to the next level? Request an invitation to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program: https://ivdi.org/inv

Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT

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Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, DAVDC, FAVD

In this episode, Dr. Beckman tackles common challenges in veterinary dentistry, including difficult extractions in small dogs and the dangers of at-home dental cleaning devices. Learn practical techniques and essential knowledge to provide the best possible dental care for your patients.

What You'll Learn: ✅ How to approach fractured coronal roots in small dogs (310/410). ✅ A flapless extraction technique for mandibular first molars. ✅ Tips for extracting fractured incisors in cats using minimal equipment. ✅ How to differentiate between bone and root in cases of ankylosis. ✅ The dangers of battery-powered ultrasonic teeth cleaning devices. ✅ Why proper subgingival curettage and root planing are crucial for preventing periodontal disease.

Key Takeaways: ✅ Patience is key when extracting difficult teeth; slow, continuous pressure with a luxator can prevent fractures. ✅ Using an 18-gauge needle as a mini-luxator can simplify incisor extractions in cats. ✅ UV penlights may help differentiate between tooth root and bone in ankylosis cases. ✅ At-home ultrasonic dental devices can cause more harm than good due to lack of polishing and potential for tissue damage. ✅ Cleaning alone is insufficient; subgingival curettage and root planing are essential for treating periodontal disease. ✅ Proper training and equipment are crucial for providing effective dental care in general practice.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to excel in dental care! Request your invitation now: ivdi.org/inv

Questions? Leave a comment below with your questions or experiences related to veterinary dentistry!

Keyword Tags: veterinary dentistry, dog teeth extraction, cat teeth extraction, dental cleaning, periodontal disease, ankylosis, root planing, subgingival curettage, veterinary dental practitioner, Brett Beckman, IVDI, dental instruments, feline dentistry, canine dentistry, veterinary education, dental training, dental instruments, loops, magnification, ultrasonic scaler, at-home dental care, veterinary CE, veterinary continuing education

Episode 178 - Root Fractures & Lucencies: Extraction vs. Treatment in Veterinary Dentistry Jun 25, 2025

Show notes

🦷 Take Your Veterinary Dentistry Skills to the Next Level → ivdi.org/inv Apply now for your invitation to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program. Learn directly from Dr. Brett Beckman and gain weekly, real-world insights to excel in dental care.

Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT

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Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist

Welcome Back to The Vet Dental Show! Every Wednesday, we bring you powerful, practical tips to enhance your veterinary dentistry skills—whether you're a veterinarian, technician, or part of a dedicated dental team.

On This Episode, Dr. Beckman answers a series of critical viewer questions on root fractures, periapical lucencies, burr selection, and vital pulp therapy. You'll gain diagnostic confidence and learn treatment approaches straight from real-world cases and workshop examples.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ When root fractures do not require extraction ✅ How to differentiate lucencies from the normal Chevron sign ✅ Radiographic and clinical signs indicating extraction necessity ✅ Options between extraction and root canal therapy ✅ The must-have burrs for general veterinary dental procedures ✅ When vital pulp therapy is viable—and when it's not ✅ How to perform crown reduction and biological pulp capping

Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways: ✅ Root segments under bone with no periodontal disease may not require extraction. ✅ Radiographic lucencies + crown mobility = extraction needed. ✅ A periapical lucency with no treatment plan = extract if root canal isn't chosen. ✅ Use 701L and 669 crosscut burrs for most canine and feline extractions. ✅ Vital pulp therapy is only successful if performed within 24–48 hours of fracture. ✅ MTA and glass ionomer restorations are key for pulp protection. ✅ Radiographic follow-ups are essential to verify long-term healing.

If you're passionate about veterinary dentistry and ready to become a top-tier practitioner, request an invite to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program at ivdi.org/inv. Don't miss out on the most comprehensive training available!

Questions or insights? Drop them in the comments!

Keyword Tags: veterinary root fracture treatment, periapical lucency vet radiographs, vet dental burr selection, vital pulp therapy dogs cats, veterinary tooth extraction techniques, veterinary endodontics options, MTA in veterinary dentistry, Dr. Brett Beckman, veterinary dental practitioner program, dental radiograph interpretation vet

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