The Vet Dental Show

Latest Episodes:

Episode 167 - Feline Stomatitis in Practice: What Every Vet Needs to Know Apr 09, 2025

Show notes

🔗 Advance Your Veterinary Dentistry Mastery Ready to grow your confidence and capability in veterinary dentistry? The Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program offers in-depth training to equip you with the skills needed for complex dental cases. Request your invitation today 👉 https://ivdi.org/inv

Looking for even more tools to sharpen your knowledge? Browse Dr. Beckman's wide range of courses and resources tailored for veterinary professionals 👉 https://veterinarydentistry.net/

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

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

In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman dives deep into Feline Stomatitis — a painful and often misunderstood condition in cats. Discover how to accurately diagnose this disease, when to refer for full-mouth extractions, and the critical pain management strategies you need to know.

🔍 What You'll Learn in This Episode

✅ How to recognize true feline stomatitis and differentiate it from similar conditions ✅ Why biopsy is rarely necessary when classic signs are present ✅ The importance of experienced surgical technique for full-mouth extractions ✅ Initial and long-term pain management options including prednisolone, interferon, and cryotherapy ✅ What to do when a case doesn't respond to standard treatment ✅ The real risks of partial extractions and how to avoid them

💡 Key Takeaways

✔️ Accurate diagnosis is key — not all oral inflammation is stomatitis ✔️ Early and aggressive pain control is essential ✔️ Only experienced practitioners should perform extractions in these cases ✔️ Misdiagnosed or incomplete treatment can lead to worsening pain ✔️ Advanced therapies can make a difference for refractory patients

🔗 Links and Resources for Veterinary Professionals

🔗 Apply to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program — https://ivdi.org/inv 🔗 Explore Dr. Beckman's courses and resources — https://veterinarydentistry.net/

📩 Have questions or thoughts? Drop them in the comments Make sure to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of The Vet Dental Show. 🦷🐱🐶

Episode 166 - Inside Veterinary Dental Tech: Pain Control, Charting & Radiograph Efficiency Apr 02, 2025

Show notes

🔗 Ready to Boost Your Dental Skills? Join the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program for expert-level training in veterinary dentistry. Apply today 👉 https://ivdi.org/inv

Discover more educational resources and courses at https://veterinarydentistry.net/

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

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Guest Expert: Annie Mills, LVT, VTS (Dentistry) Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM

Welcome to The Vet Dental Show! In this episode, Annie Mills, LVT, Dental Technician Specialist (VTS), answers real-world questions from veterinary professionals about dental charting, anesthesia logs, pain management, and radiograph efficiency, offering valuable insights from a technician's point of view.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ How to send clients home with easy-to-understand dental charts ✔️ What to include in complete discharge documents (charts, drug logs, x-rays & instructions) ✔️ When and why to use fentanyl patches post-op in canine patients ✔️ Why bupivacaine may last much longer than you think—no need for additives ✔️ Tips for taking full-mouth radiographs using only a #2 sensor ✔️ Understanding infraorbital vs. caudal maxillary blocks ✔️ Whether it's effective (or advisable) to bend your needle during blocks

Key Takeaways: ✅ Clients appreciate thorough yet simple discharge documents ✅ Fentanyl patches help ensure consistent pain control, especially when oral meds are hard to give ✅ Bupivacaine can offer up to 72 hours of pain relief—ideal for post-op comfort ✅ Consistent practice and positioning technique improve radiograph speed and quality ✅ Choosing the right local block depends on location and patient anatomy ✅ Bending the needle is a helpful and accepted method in certain block placements

Links & Resources for Veterinary Professionals: Apply to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program ➡️ https://ivdi.org/inv Explore Dr. Beckman's full course catalog ➡️ https://veterinarydentistry.net/

Got questions or feedback? Drop them in the comments! 👍 Like this episode, 🔔 subscribe, and tune in every Wednesday for new veterinary dentistry insights from the field.

Episode 165 - Maximizing Efficiency & Profitability in Veterinary Dentistry Mar 26, 2025

Show notes

🔗 Elevate Your Veterinary Dentistry Skills! Take your expertise to the next level with the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program, a comprehensive training program designed to help you master veterinary dentistry. Request an invitation today! 👉 https://ivdi.org/inv

Want to expand your knowledge even further? Explore Dr. Beckman's courses and resources to enhance your skills and confidence in veterinary dentistry. 👉 https://veterinarydentistry.net/

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

In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman shares essential strategies for scheduling and pricing in veterinary dentistry. From optimizing procedure efficiency to setting up a pricing structure that reflects the value of dental services, this episode provides a roadmap for maximizing both patient care and practice profitability.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why limiting procedures per day improves quality and efficiency ✅ The true value of veterinary dentistry and how to price it accordingly ✅ How to use staging protocols to streamline scheduling and avoid surprises ✅ The key differences between general surgery pricing and dental procedure pricing ✅ How to ensure your dental service is the most profitable part of your practice ✅ Ways to minimize stress for veterinarians, technicians, and pet owners

Key Takeaways: ✔️ Veterinary dentistry requires specialized skills and should be priced accordingly ✔️ Using staging protocols (COHAT) helps predict procedure time and improves efficiency ✔️ The right pricing model ensures profitability while maintaining high-quality care ✔️ Proper scheduling leads to less stress and better outcomes for staff and patients ✔️ Investing in training and workflow optimization can transform your practice's approach to dentistry

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Links & Resources for Veterinary Professionals: 🔗 Apply to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program - https://ivdi.org/inv 🔗 Explore Dr. Beckman's courses and resources - https://veterinarydentistry.net/

📩 Have questions or comments? Let us know below! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more valuable veterinary dentistry content. 🦷🐶🐱

Episode 164 - Advanced Veterinary Extractions & Dentistry Expert Insights with Dr. Brett Beckman Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

🔗 Enhance Your Veterinary Dentistry Skills! Apply to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program for specialized training today! https://ivdi.org/inv

Explore Dr. Beckman's courses and resources to deepen your expertise in veterinary dentistry. https://veterinarydentistry.net/

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 Welcome to The Vet Dental Show! Join board-certified veterinary dentist Dr. Brett Beckman as he answers critical questions in veterinary dentistry, from advanced extractions to effective nerve blocks and the best dental care practices for pets.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ How to release palatal gingiva for easier closure in extractions (109 & 209) ✔️ Best approach for extracting fractured incisors with missing crowns ✔️ Understanding pulpitis and whether it leads to tooth root abscesses ✔️ Bone loss and furcation involvement in growth abnormalities (208 & 207) ✔️ Safe chew toy recommendations to prevent dental fractures in puppies ✔️ When to extract discolored teeth vs. performing a root canal ✔️ Why bupivacaine is preferred for nerve blocks over other anesthetics

Key Takeaways: ✅ Practice makes perfect – Advanced extractions require training and repetition ✅ Avoid hard chew toys – Antlers, rawhides, and bones can lead to dental fractures ✅ Discolored teeth are often dead – They require extraction or root canal treatment ✅ Radiographs are essential – They help assess bone loss and hidden dental issues ✅ Bupivacaine is the go-to – Provides long-lasting pain relief without additives

Links & Resources for Veterinary Professionals: Apply to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program ➡️ https://ivdi.org/inv Explore Dr. Beckman's courses & resources ➡️ https://veterinarydentistry.net/

📩 Have questions or comments? Drop them below! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more veterinary dentistry insights!

Episode 163 - From Passion to Purpose: Dr. Trudy Bowden's Journey to Mastering Veterinary Dentistry Mar 12, 2025

Show notes

🔗 Take Your Veterinary Dentistry Skills to the Next Level! Join the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program for expert training and hands-on learning! https://ivdi.org/inv

Discover Dr. Beckman's courses and resources to expand your knowledge in veterinary dentistry. https://veterinarydentistry.net/

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

In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman sits down with Dr. Trudy Bowden, a proud graduate of the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program, to discuss her inspiring journey in veterinary dentistry. From early career challenges to mastering advanced dental techniques, Dr. Bowden shares her transformation and how she overcame obstacles to become a leader in the field.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How attending a single seminar reignited Dr. Bowden's passion for dentistry ✅ The critical role of full-mouth dental radiographs in diagnosing hidden pathology ✅ Overcoming challenges as a veterinarian, mother, and dentistry advocate ✅ Why having a designated dentistry leader in a practice is essential for success ✅ The power of mentorship, training, and persistence in advancing your career ✅ How Dr. Bowden transitioned from a small practice lead to teaching veterinary dentistry

Key Takeaways: ✔️ Investing in dental radiography can significantly improve patient outcomes ✔️ A structured mentorship program accelerates learning and confidence ✔️ Balancing professional and personal life is challenging but achievable ✔️ Taking action on your passion can lead to a fulfilling career shift ✔️ Veterinary dentistry is a rewarding field that enhances both patient care and practice revenue

📩 Have questions or comments? Let us know below! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more valuable veterinary dentistry content. 🦷🐶🐱

Episode 162 - The Role of Ketamine in Veterinary Pain Management Mar 05, 2025

Show notes

🔗 Unlock the Secrets to Pain Management – Yours Forever! Take your knowledge to the next level with lifetime access to the full online course on pain management! Go to http://ivdi.org/pain and use promo code "pain" to start learning instantly!

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

In this episode, veterinary pain management expert Dr. Mark Epstein explores the evolving role of ketamine in pain control for dogs and cats. He explains how ketamine works, its opioid-sparing effects, and how it can be used in perioperative and chronic pain management. With practical dosing recommendations and emerging research insights, this episode is a must-watch for veterinary professionals!

What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How ketamine prevents pain through NMDA receptor antagonism ✅ Why ketamine is not a true analgesic but an effective pain-preventive agent ✅ Best practices for dosing in both acute and chronic pain cases ✅ How ketamine is revolutionizing pain management beyond surgery ✅ Potential applications in neuropathic pain, maladaptive pain, and even depression

Key Takeaways: 🔹 Ketamine as an Opioid-Sparing Analgesic Blocks NMDA receptors, preventing central sensitization and exaggerated pain responses. Used perioperatively and in chronic pain cases for its anti-hyperalgesic effects. Helps reduce opioid dependence in veterinary pain protocols. Standard Dosing: Loading dose: 0.6 mL of 100 mg/mL solution into 1L of fluids CRI dose: 5-10 mL/kg/hr during surgery, then maintenance post-op Chronic pain use: Low-dose SC or IV infusions every 2-4 weeks

🔹 Clinical Safety & Considerations Generally safe, even in trauma and post-op patients. Contraindications: Use caution in cases of severe cardiovascular disease. Research-backed benefits: Ketamine is being studied for neuropathic pain and depression treatment.

🔹 Veterinary Applications & Future Research Used in combination with opioids and other analgesics for maximum effect. Beneficial in maladaptive pain cases, including arthritis, chronic inflammation, and nerve injuries. Emerging techniques: Subcutaneous infusion devices for continuous low-dose delivery.

📢 Have Questions or Comments? Drop them below! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more expert veterinary pain management content.

Episode 161 - Parenteral Pain Modifying Analgesics in Veterinary Medicine Feb 26, 2025

Show notes

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

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

In this episode, veterinary pain management expert Dr. Mark Epstein explores the latest advancements in parenteral pain-modifying analgesics for chronic pain in dogs and cats. He breaks down the science behind ketamine, bisphosphonates, maropitant, and interventional pain therapies, providing practical dosing recommendations and real-world clinical insights.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How ketamine can be used beyond perioperative settings for chronic pain ✅ The role of bisphosphonates in managing osteosarcoma pain ✅ Maropitant's potential as a pain-modifying agent ✅ The latest research on interventional pain therapies (steroids, PRP, hyaluronic acid) ✅ Practical dosing recommendations and safety considerations

Key Takeaways: 🔹 Ketamine for Chronic Pain: Perioperative ketamine use is expanding into chronic pain management Administered every two weeks for three to four doses Research on subcutaneous infusion devices for continuous low-dose delivery Anecdotal reports on monthly low-dose SC ketamine (0.5 mg/kg), but more studies needed 🔹 Bisphosphonates for Osteosarcoma Pain: Zoledronate (Zoledronic Acid) is preferred over pamidronate—stronger, safer, and quicker Standard dose: 0.1 mg/kg IV over 15 minutes (max 4 mg) Best when combined with NSAIDs and radiation therapy for enhanced pain relief 🔹 Maropitant (Cerenia) Beyond Anti-Nausea: May reduce central sensitization (wind-up pain) despite not being a direct analgesic Some studies show benefits for neuropathic pain, GI pain, and post-op discomfort New research into nanoparticle formulations for improved absorption 🔹 Interventional Therapies for Chronic Pain: Saline alone can provide joint pain relief by diluting inflammatory mediators Corticosteroids reduce inflammation but may harm cartilage—use cautiously Hyaluronic Acid (HA) may not outperform saline in osteoarthritis management PRP & stem cell therapy show promise, but protocols and effectiveness vary

📢 Have Questions or Comments? Drop them below! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more expert veterinary pain management content.

🔗 Unlock the Secrets to Pain Management – Yours Forever! Loved today's insights from Dr. Epstein? Take your knowledge to the next level with lifetime access to the full online course on pain management! Go to http://ivdi.org/pain and use promo code "pain" to start learning instantly!

Episode 160 - Antibiotic Use in Veterinary Dentistry: What You Need to Know! Feb 19, 2025

Show notes

🔗 Get Your Veterinary Antibiotic Guidelines! Download the latest recommendations for antibiotic use in veterinary dentistry. Visit http://ivdi.org/ab to access the document and receive updates!

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

In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, board-certified veterinary dentist Dr. Brett Beckman dives into best practices for antibiotic use in veterinary dentistry. He reviews the latest research, recommendations from AVDC and AAHA, and provides clear guidelines for when to use antibiotics for prophylaxis in dental procedures.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Current AVDC & AAHA recommendations on antibiotic use ✅ The impact of recent research on antimicrobial use in general practice ✅ Specific conditions that require pre-operative antibiotics ✅ The role of beta-lactams and alternative antibiotic choices ✅ Why post-operative antibiotics are generally not recommended

Key Takeaways: 🔹 Antibiotics should only be used for specific pre-existing conditions (e.g., cardiac, metabolic, hepatic, renal disease) 🔹 Timing is crucial – Administer 30-60 minutes pre-operatively and repeat during longer procedures 🔹 Beta-lactams (e.g., cephalexin, ampicillin) are the primary choices 🔹 Post-op antibiotics are unnecessary unless osteomyelitis is confirmed via radiographs, CBCT, or biopsy

Download the Antibiotic Use Guidelines: 📩 Get the full document with antibiotic dosages and specific indications at http://ivdi.org/ab. This document is regularly updated to reflect the latest evidence-based recommendations!

Have questions or comments? Drop them below! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more expert veterinary dentistry content.

Explore More Veterinary Dentistry Resources Learn more about veterinary dental education: https://veterinarydentistry.net/

Episode 159 - Veterinary Dentistry: When to Extract, Restore, or Refer? Feb 12, 2025

Show notes

🔗 Exclusive Offer for Podcast Listeners! Get a huge discount on Dr. Brett Beckman's Composite Restoration and Bonding Course! Visit https://ivdi.org/restore and use promo code podcast at checkout!

Apply to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program for specialized training today! 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, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM

Dr. Brett Beckman, a board-certified veterinary dentist, shares expert insights into diagnosing and treating common dental fractures in veterinary practice. Using real-world case examples, he discusses when to extract, when to refer, and how to educate clients about their pet's dental care.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to diagnose and assess common dental fractures ✅ The decision-making process: extraction vs. root canal treatment ✅ Understanding tooth resorption and its impact on treatment options ✅ Techniques for odontoplasty, bonding, and composite restorations ✅ Managing complex extractions, including ankylosis and periodontal disease

Key Takeaways: Slab fractures with pulp exposure require treatment—either root canal or extraction Tooth resorption may indicate endodontic disease, requiring extraction Restoration techniques must consider chewing trauma and long-term success Complex extractions should be referred when necessary to ensure the best outcome Client education is essential to help pet owners make informed decisions

Links & Resources for Veterinary Professionals: Apply to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program – https://ivdi.org/inv

Get a huge discount on Dr. Brett Beckman's Composite Restoration and Bonding Course! Visit https://ivdi.org/restore and use promo code podcast at checkout!

📩 Have questions or comments? Drop them below! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more expert veterinary dentistry content!

Episode 158 - How Long Do Crowns Last & When to Refer for Root Canals Feb 05, 2025

Show notes

Enhance Your Veterinary Dentistry Skills! Apply to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program for specialized training today! https://ivdi.org/inv Explore Dr. Beckman's courses and resources to deepen your expertise in veterinary dentistry. https://veterinarydentistry.net/ Get more out of this episode by watching the presentation as well on YouTube: https://ivdi.org/thevetdentalshowYT Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman, a board-certified veterinary dentist, answers key questions on veterinary dentistry, including the longevity of crowns, success rates of vital pulp therapy, and when to refer for root canal treatment. What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How long crowns last in veterinary patients and if they need replacement
Success rates of vital pulp therapy and why early intervention matters
Key radiographic signs that indicate the need for a root canal referral
Why root canal training isn't available for general practitioners
How to educate clients on tooth extractions—even when pets seem fine
What to expect in post-root canal monitoring for long-term success
Why fractured deciduous teeth in puppies should be extracted ASAP

Key Takeaways:

Properly placed crowns should last the lifetime of the patient
Vital pulp therapy success rates drop significantly after 48 hours
Radiographs are essential for determining tooth vitality and referral timing
Root canals require extensive training, making referral the best option
Client education is critical for gaining owner compliance with extractions
Fractured baby teeth can lead to infection and should be extracted immediately

Links & Resources for Veterinary Professionals: Apply to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program - https://ivdi.org/inv Explore Dr. Beckman's courses and resources - https://veterinarydentistry.net/ Have questions or comments? Let us know below, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more valuable veterinary dentistry content!

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