Episodios

  • Episode 220 - How Radiographs Improve Dental Case Outcomes

    Episode 220 - How Radiographs Improve Dental Case Outcomes
    Apr 15 2026
    Want to sharpen your radiographic interpretation skills and improve case outcomes? Join Dr. Beckman for a FREE live CE training + Q&A session designed to elevate your dental diagnostics and confidence. 👉 Save your spot now: https://ivdi.org/rad --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Welcome Back to The Vet Dental Show! In this episode, Annie Mills, LVT, tackles real-world clinical questions straight from veterinary teams, diving into the nuances of dental scheduling, periodontal decision-making, and managing complications. From fistula repair considerations to interpreting radiographic findings in cats, this discussion brings clarity to situations that often create uncertainty in general practice. This Q&A-focused episode explores practical challenges veterinarians and technicians face daily in dentistry—from how to appropriately schedule dental procedures without relying on unreliable grading systems, to determining when advanced periodontal disease can be treated in-house versus referred. Annie emphasizes the critical role of radiographs in diagnosis, explains why bone loss—not pocket depth—drives extraction decisions, and walks through the technique and purpose of closed root planing. The conversation also highlights how to approach complications like post-extraction fistulas and how to maintain strong client communication when outcomes don't go as expected. Whether you're refining your workflow or expanding your clinical confidence, this episode delivers actionable guidance grounded in real cases. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎯 Why dental "grading" before radiographs leads to inaccurate scheduling 🎯 How to categorize patients for smarter, more predictable dental workflows 🎯 When fistula repair should be handled as a client relations issue 🎯 The clinical factors that determine whether advanced periodontal cases require referral 🎯 How to interpret vestibular bone expansion in feline patients 🎯 The difference between early vs. advanced bone loss on radiographs 🎯 Proper timing and technique for administering dental nerve blocks 🎯 Step-by-step purpose and execution of closed root planing 🎯 Why periodontal pocket depth alone does NOT determine extraction decisions Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways 🔑 Radiographs are non-negotiable—they are the only reliable way to assess disease severity 🔑 Scheduling should be strategic, not based on assumed "grades" 🔑 Bone loss dictates treatment, not soft tissue pocketing 🔑 Closed root planing is a critical tool for managing early periodontal disease 🔑 Client communication matters, especially when complications arise 🔑 Referral is not failure—it's appropriate patient care when cases exceed skill level 🔑 Efficiency comes from team training, especially technician-driven workflow improvements Questions This Episode Answers ❓ How should I price and manage post-extraction fistulas? ❓ Why is pre-dental grading unreliable in general practice? ❓ How can I schedule dental procedures more effectively? ❓ Should all advanced periodontal cases be referred? ❓ Does bone expansion in cats always require extraction? ❓ When is root planing appropriate, and how is it performed safely? ❓ What truly determines whether a tooth should be extracted? --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ready to take your dental skills to the next level? 👉 Join the upcoming FREE radiographic interpretation training: https://ivdi.org/rad 🦷 Live & Online Veterinary Dental Courses https://veterinarydentistry.net/ 🛠️ Dr. Brett's Trusted Equipment & Instruments https://drbrettspets.com/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If this episode helped clarify your dental workflow or clinical decisions: 👍 Like the video 💬 Drop your questions in the comments 🔔 Subscribe for weekly veterinary dentistry insights --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- veterinary dental scheduling tips, periodontal disease in dogs and cats, veterinary dental radiograph interpretation, root planing veterinary dentistry, when to extract teeth in dogs, feline dental bone expansion treatment, veterinary dental workflow efficiency, managing dental fistulas in dogs, veterinary dentistry CE training, improving dental case outcomes veterinary, brett beckman, ivdi
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    13 m
  • Episode 219 - Hidden Errors in Everyday Vet Dentistry Practice

    Episode 219 - Hidden Errors in Everyday Vet Dentistry Practice
    Apr 8 2026

    Before diving in, don't miss your opportunity to advance your dentistry skills with our FREE RACE-approved CE course. Strengthen your clinical confidence and elevate your patient care starting today:
    👉 https://ivdi.org/free

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

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    Welcome Back to the Vet Dental Show!

    This episode takes a practical turn as Dr. Beckman addresses real-world questions submitted during recent trainings. From surgical decision-making to anesthesia protocols and home care recommendations, this session delivers concise, experience-driven answers that general practitioners can immediately apply in practice.

    In this Q&A-focused episode, Dr. Beckman tackles common—but often misunderstood—topics in veterinary dentistry. He clarifies best practices for surgical extractions, including flap management and gingival closure, and provides guidance on when referral is appropriate. The discussion also explores effective pain management strategies such as long-acting local anesthetics, as well as proper nerve block techniques in both dogs and cats.

    Additionally, the episode highlights practical tools—from improvised mouth gags to suture selection—and offers realistic, evidence-based recommendations for at-home dental care compliance.

    Whether you're refining your surgical technique or improving client communication, this episode delivers actionable insights grounded in clinical experience.

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    📚 What You'll Learn in This Episode
    ✅ Why gingival debridement and tension-free closure are essential after extractions
    ✅ When surgical cases require referral due to insufficient attached gingiva
    ✅ How to perform and apply periodontal flaps, including periosteal releasing incisions
    ✅ Practical alternatives to commercial mouth gags using modified endotracheal tubes
    ✅ Clinical benefits and client communication advantages of long-acting anesthetics like Nocita
    ✅ Accurate application of infraorbital nerve blocks in cats and small dogs
    ✅ Appropriate suture needle selection for different species and procedures
    ✅ Evidence-based home care strategies that improve client compliance
    ✅ How oral products like TDC and dental chews impact plaque adherence and inflammation

    🔑 Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways
    ✅ Closure matters: Proper flap design and tension-free suturing are critical for healing after extractions
    ✅ Know your limits: Cases with inadequate gingival tissue should be referred if advanced techniques aren't familiar
    ✅ Pain control is evolving: Long-acting local anesthetics significantly improve post-op comfort and client satisfaction
    ✅ Technique precision is key: Infraorbital blocks in cats provide broader anesthesia due to anatomical differences
    ✅ Keep it simple for clients: Compliance improves when home care recommendations are easy and realistic
    ✅ Adjunctive products help: Dental chews and anti-inflammatory supplements can meaningfully reduce plaque and inflammation

    ❓ Questions This Episode Answers
    ✅ Is it ever appropriate to skip gingival closure after an extraction?
    ✅ What should I do when there's not enough tissue to close a surgical site?
    ✅ What's the most practical mouth gag setup in general practice?
    ✅ How effective is Nocita for post-operative pain control?
    ✅ Do infraorbital nerve blocks anesthetize all maxillary teeth?
    ✅ What suture needles should I be using in dogs vs. cats?
    ✅ How should I approach dental home care with low-compliance clients?

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    If you found this episode helpful, make sure to:
    ✅ Enroll in our FREE CE course: https://ivdi.org/free
    ✅Subscribe for weekly clinical insights
    ✅ Share this episode with your colleagues
    ✅ Drop your questions—we may feature them in a future Q&A episode

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    veterinary dental extractions technique, gingival flap veterinary dentistry, infraorbital nerve block cat dog, veterinary dental pain management nocita, veterinary dental suturing techniques, periodontal flap closure dogs cats, veterinary oral surgery tips general practice, VOHC approved dental products pets, improving client compliance pet dental care, veterinary dentistry Q&A practical tips
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    8 m
  • Episode 218 - The #1 Dental Mistake Vets Still Make

    Episode 218 - The #1 Dental Mistake Vets Still Make
    Apr 1 2026
    Want to sharpen your dental skills and earn RACE-approved CE—completely free? 👉 Head over to https://ivdi.org/free to access high-impact training and join thousands of veterinary professionals improving their dentistry outcomes. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In this episode, we tackle real-world clinical questions submitted by veterinary professionals during recent trainings. From flap design concerns to periodontal regeneration strategies, this Q&A session delivers practical, experience-driven guidance you can immediately apply in general practice. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This episode focuses on common—but often nuanced—clinical challenges in veterinary dentistry. Dr. Beckman addresses concerns around surgical technique, instrument handling, and treatment decision-making with clear, actionable explanations. Key topics include safe flap creation near critical anatomy, effective gingival closure techniques, suture selection across species, and the clinical importance of removing retained tooth roots. The discussion also dives into instrument sharpening protocols and modern periodontal therapies, including the shift away from traditional antibiotic products toward regenerative solutions like hyaluronic acid-based gels. If you're looking to refine your surgical confidence and elevate patient outcomes, this episode delivers essential insights grounded in daily clinical practice. What You'll Learn in This Episode ✅ How to safely create vertical releasing flaps near the infraorbital canal ✅ Practical technique for closing gingiva near the canine tooth ✅ Suture material selection for dogs vs. cats in oral surgery ✅ Why retained deciduous roots must always be removed—and how to do it efficiently ✅ Step-by-step approach to accessing and extracting fractured roots ✅ How often to sharpen dental instruments—and who should be responsible ✅ Clinical decision-making for teeth affected by resorption ✅ Techniques to stabilize bone graft material within extraction sites ✅ How hyaluronic acid-based products enhance healing and reduce pain ✅ Why traditional periodontal antibiotics are becoming obsolete Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways ✅ Vertical flap creation is safer than many assume when proper tissue tension and anatomical awareness are applied ✅ Retained roots are not benign—they can lead to infection, fistulas, and chronic discomfort ✅ Efficient flap design and bone removal improve visualization and extraction success ✅ Instrument sharpness directly impacts surgical efficiency and outcomes—make it routine ✅ Bone graft success depends on proper layering, clot management, and stabilization ✅ Hyaluronic acid gels support regeneration, reduce epithelial down-growth, and improve healing predictability ✅ Periodontal therapy is shifting toward biologics and regeneration—not antibiotics Questions This Episode Answers ❓ How close is too close to the infraorbital nerve during flap creation? ❓ What's the best way to suture gingiva near tight anatomical spaces? ❓ Which suture size should I use for different patient sizes? ❓ Do I really need to chase every retained root fragment? ❓ What's the easiest way to remove fractured deciduous roots? ❓ Should I sharpen instruments daily, weekly, or after every procedure? ❓ When is extraction necessary for resorptive lesions? ❓ Why does bone graft material displace—and how do I prevent it? ❓ Are products like doxycycline gels still relevant in periodontal therapy? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 🔚 Ready to Level Up Your Dentistry Skills? If this episode helped clarify your approach to extractions, suturing, or periodontal care, don't stop here. 👉 Get your FREE RACE-approved CE course at https://ivdi.org/free 📩 Subscribe to stay updated with new clinical insights 💬 Drop your questions in the comments—we may feature them in a future episode! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ veterinary dentistry techniques, dog dental extraction tips, cat dental surgery sutures, infraorbital nerve veterinary dentistry, retained deciduous teeth extraction, veterinary dental flap design, periodontal regeneration dogs, hyaluronic acid dental veterinary, veterinary dental instruments sharpening, veterinary dentistry CE course, tooth resorption treatment dogs cats, veterinary oral surgery tips, bone graft veterinary dentistry
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    11 m
  • Episode 217 - Mandibular Canine Extraction Tips Every Vet Should Know (Avoid These Mistakes!)

    Episode 217 - Mandibular Canine Extraction Tips Every Vet Should Know (Avoid These Mistakes!)
    Mar 25 2026
    Take the next step in your veterinary dentistry journey — get a FREE online course with 1 hour of RACE-approved CE when you subscribe to our newsletter: 👉 https://ivdi.org/free ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Welcome back! In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman answers practical, real-world questions from veterinary professionals, focusing on improving extraction techniques, avoiding complications, and making smarter clinical decisions in general practice. This episode centers on one of the most technically challenging areas in veterinary dentistry—mandibular canine extractions in large dogs—along with critical guidance on retained root tips, instrumentation choices, and anesthesia alternatives. Dr. Beckman explains why accessing the apex of mandibular teeth is unsafe due to the mandibular canal and how clinicians must adapt their approach using controlled bone removal, strategic elevation, and patience. He highlights the importance of proper technique at the bone-tooth interface and why rushing extractions leads to complications. The discussion also covers how to evaluate and manage retained root fragments, when monitoring is appropriate, and when intervention is necessary based on radiographic findings. Additionally, Dr. Beckman shares insights on the use of Vet-Tome mechanical periotomes to improve efficiency and reduce trauma, recommendations for dental loupes, safe use of mouth gags, and practical alternatives to bupivacaine for dental blocks. This episode delivers actionable techniques that help veterinarians perform safer, faster, and more predictable dental extractions. What You'll Learn in This Episode ✅ Why you cannot safely reach the apex in mandibular canine extractions ✅ How to work around the mandibular canal and avoid neurovascular damage ✅ The importance of correct bone removal and tooth interface preparation ✅ Differences between luxators, elevators, and hybrid instruments ✅ How sustained pressure improves extraction success ✅ When retained root tips should be monitored vs. removed ✅ How Vet-Tome (mechanical periotome) improves efficiency and outcomes ✅ Best practices for using dental loupes in veterinary dentistry ✅ Safe mouth gag techniques to prevent trigeminal neuropathy ✅ Effective alternative to bupivacaine for dental blocks (ropivacaine) Key Veterinary Dentistry Takeaways ✅ Mandibular anatomy limits how far apically you can safely work ✅ Patience and sustained pressure are critical for successful extractions ✅ Incorrect technique at the bone-tooth interface leads to major complications ✅ Many retained root tips can be safely monitored if asymptomatic ✅ Vet-Tome use reduces extraction time and physical effort significantly ✅ Avoid excessive force—controlled technique yields better outcomes ✅ Improper mouth gag use can cause permanent nerve damage ✅ Ropivacaine is a reliable and accessible alternative for local anesthesia ✅ Instrument selection directly impacts efficiency and safety ✅ Mastering fundamentals improves both speed and clinical confidence Questions This Episode Answers ❓ Why can't you go to the apex on mandibular canine teeth? ❓ How do you safely extract deeply rooted mandibular canines in large dogs? ❓ What happens if a root tip is left behind after extraction? ❓ When should retained roots be removed versus monitored? ❓ How does a Vet-Tome improve dental extractions? ❓ What's the difference between luxators and elevators? ❓ Are mouth gags safe to use in veterinary dentistry? ❓ How do you prevent trigeminal nerve damage during procedures? ❓ What loupes are recommended for veterinary dental procedures? ❓ What can be used instead of bupivacaine for dental blocks? ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 🎓 Get a FREE veterinary dentistry course with 1 hour of RACE-approved CE when you sign up: https://ivdi.org/free 🛒 Veterinary dental instruments & supplies: https://drbrettspets.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 💬 Questions or insights? Drop them in the comments! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 👍 If you found this episode helpful, LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE with your team to improve your veterinary dentistry skills. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- mandibular canine extraction dog, veterinary dentistry techniques, retained root tip veterinary, vet tome periotome veterinary, veterinary dental extraction tips, luxator vs elevator veterinary dentistry, veterinary oral surgery dog, dental blocks veterinary ropivacaine, veterinary mouth gag safety, veterinary dental CE course, dog tooth extraction complications, veterinary ...
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    10 m
  • Episode 216 - Veterinary Dental Pain Management, Nerve Blocks & Radiographs

    Episode 216 - Veterinary Dental Pain Management, Nerve Blocks & Radiographs
    Mar 18 2026
    Take the next step in your veterinary dentistry journey — get a FREE online course with 1 hour of RACE-approved CE when you subscribe to our newsletter: https://ivdi.org/free ---------------------------------------------------------- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM Guest: Annie Mills, LVT ---------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Annie Mills, LVT answers practical, real-world questions from recent veterinary dentistry trainings, focusing on improving efficiency, pain management, radiographic technique, and client communication in general practice. Annie begins by breaking down how to effectively communicate dental findings to pet owners using detailed dental charts, anesthetic monitoring logs, radiographs, and discharge instructions. She explains how clear documentation improves client understanding, builds trust, and demonstrates the level of care provided during dental procedures. The episode then dives into postoperative pain management strategies, including when and why fentanyl patches are used in canine patients—especially those undergoing multiple or full-mouth extractions. Annie highlights the importance of continuous analgesia, minimizing gaps in pain control, and reducing owner stress by simplifying at-home care. Radiographic efficiency is another key focus, particularly for practices limited to a single size-2 sensor. Annie emphasizes that speed and accuracy come from repetition, proper training, and consistent positioning techniques—especially when working with larger canine patients. The discussion also explores updated local anesthesia protocols, including why adding narcotics like buprenorphine to nerve blocks is no longer necessary. Annie explains the extended duration of bupivacaine and the benefits of longer-acting options like Nocita for providing up to 72 hours of postoperative analgesia. Finally, she reviews decision-making for regional nerve blocks in the maxilla, including when to use infraorbital versus caudal maxillary blocks, and practical techniques such as bending needles to improve access and accuracy. This episode delivers actionable, experience-based insights to help veterinary technicians and veterinarians improve patient comfort, clinical efficiency, and client communication in everyday dental practice. What You'll Learn: ✅ How to improve client communication using dental charts and reports ✅ What to include in anesthetic monitoring and discharge instructions ✅ When to use fentanyl patches for postoperative pain management ✅ How continuous analgesia improves patient comfort after extractions ✅ Tips for taking faster dental radiographs with a size-2 sensor ✅ Why practice and positioning are key to radiographic efficiency ✅ Updated approach to nerve blocks without added narcotics ✅ How long bupivacaine and Nocita provide analgesia ✅ When to use infraorbital vs caudal maxillary nerve blocks ✅ Practical techniques to improve nerve block accuracy Key Takeaways: ✅ Clear documentation improves client understanding and trust ✅ Sending charts, radiographs, and instructions enhances compliance ✅ Fentanyl patches provide consistent pain control in dogs ✅ Reducing oral medications lowers owner stress ✅ Radiograph speed improves with repetition and training ✅ Larger patients require more troubleshooting for positioning ✅ Bupivacaine may last longer than previously thought ✅ Long-acting local anesthetics improve postoperative comfort ✅ Proper nerve block selection depends on treatment location ✅ Small technique adjustments can improve procedural success Questions This Episode Answers: ❓ Do clients understand dental charts and anesthetic monitoring reports? ❓ When should fentanyl patches be used in veterinary dental cases? ❓ How can you take faster radiographs with limited equipment? ❓ Does adding buprenorphine extend nerve block duration? ❓ How long does bupivacaine actually last? ❓ When should you use infraorbital vs caudal maxillary blocks? ❓ Can bending the needle improve nerve block technique? ❓ How can you reduce gaps in postoperative pain management? ❓ What improves client compliance after dental procedures? ---------------------------------------------------------- Get a FREE veterinary dentistry course with 1 hour of RACE-approved CE when you sign up for our newsletter: https://ivdi.org/free ---------------------------------------------------------- Questions? Leave a comment below with your thoughts, experiences, or challenges in veterinary dentistry! ---------------------------------------------------------- Veterinary Dentistry, Vet Dental Show, Annie Mills LVT, Brett Beckman, Veterinary Technician Dentistry, Veterinary Pain Management, Fentanyl Patch Dogs, Veterinary Nerve Blocks, Infraorbital Block, Caudal Maxillary Block, Dental Radiographs Dogs, Veterinary Dental X Rays, Bupivacaine, Nocita, Veterinary Extractions, Dog Dental Surgery...
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    9 m
  • Episode 215 - Veterinary Dental Extractions & Suturing: Root Tips, Bone Grafts, Hemorrhage Control

    Episode 215 - Veterinary Dental Extractions & Suturing: Root Tips, Bone Grafts, Hemorrhage Control
    Mar 11 2026

    Transform how you manage extraction sites and periodontal pockets — get a FREE 30-minute consultation with a specialist + a FREE sample of PerioVive for your practice:
    👉 https://ivdi.org/ha

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

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    In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman answers practical questions submitted during recent veterinary dentistry trainings—covering extraction closure techniques, bone graft decisions, periodontal pocket management, and managing intraoperative bleeding in general practice.

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    What You'll Learn:
    ✅ When extraction sites should be fully sutured versus partially closed
    ✅ Surgical approaches for ankylosed teeth and replacement resorption
    ✅ How to safely elevate palatal gingiva in feline dental extractions
    ✅ Interdental suturing techniques for closing envelope flaps
    ✅ When bone grafts are indicated during veterinary dental extractions
    ✅ How hyaluronic acid can support healing in periodontal defects
    ✅ Techniques for managing bleeding during dental extractions
    ✅ How to properly treat periodontal pockets with root planing
    ✅ Why modern periodontal therapy is moving away from doxycycline products
    ✅ How and when to reevaluate periodontal treatment outcomes

    Key Takeaways:
    ✅ Complete closure of extraction sites is generally safest in veterinary patients
    ✅ Ankylosed teeth require careful bone removal and patience during extraction
    ✅ Interdental sutures allow closure of envelope flaps without damaging adjacent teeth
    ✅ Bone grafts are only necessary when adjacent teeth are at risk due to bone loss
    ✅ Hyaluronic acid can improve healing when combined with natural blood clot formation
    ✅ Hemostatic agents can control bleeding caused by surgical trauma during extraction
    ✅ Proper periodontal pocket treatment requires removal of granulation tissue and root planing
    ✅ Follow-up periodontal evaluation often requires anesthetized exams and radiographs

    Questions This Episode Answers:
    ❓ Should maxillary molar extraction sites be fully sutured?
    ❓ How do you extract teeth affected by ankylosis or replacement resorption?
    ❓ How do you elevate palatal gingiva during feline dental procedures?
    ❓ How do you suture an envelope flap when healthy teeth are present?
    ❓ When should bone grafts be used during dental extractions?
    ❓ How do you control bleeding during veterinary dental surgery?
    ❓ How should periodontal pockets be treated in dogs and cats?
    ❓ When should periodontal defects be re-evaluated after treatment?

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    PerioVive is offering:
    ✔ A FREE 30-minute consultation with a board-certified veterinary dentist or VTS in dentistry
    ✔ A FREE sample of the product for use in your practice

    Hyaluronic acid has become a staple in modern veterinary dentistry for pain management, attachment gain, and regenerative support in both extraction and periodontal cases.

    Take advantage of this offer here: https://ivdi.org/ha

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    Questions? Leave a comment below with your thoughts, clinical experiences, or case challenges in veterinary dentistry.'

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    Veterinary Dentistry, Vet Dental Show, Veterinary Dental Extractions, Veterinary Oral Surgery, Brett Beckman, Dental Suturing, Bone Grafts, Periodontal Pockets, Hyaluronic Acid Veterinary Dentistry, Veterinary CE, Veterinary Education, Vet Dental Surgery, Veterinary Periodontal Therapy, Extraction Techniques, Veterinary Dental Training
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    18 m
  • Episode 214 - Avoid Mandibular Fractures & Extraction Mistakes in Veterinary Dentistry

    Episode 214 - Avoid Mandibular Fractures & Extraction Mistakes in Veterinary Dentistry
    Mar 4 2026
    Transform how you manage extraction sites and postoperative pain — get a FREE 30-minute consultation with a specialist + a FREE sample of PerioVive for your practice: 👉 https://ivdi.org/ha ------------------------------------------------------- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM ------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman answers practical, real-world questions from recent online veterinary dentistry trainings — focusing on extraction technique, instrument selection, crown amputation, mandibular canal safety, and surgical flap management in dogs and cats. The discussion begins with a foundational question in veterinary extractions: What's the difference between an elevator and a luxator? Dr. Beckman explains how modern luxating elevators differ from traditional elevators, why luxators are sharper and more precise for simple extractions, and how proper instrument selection improves efficiency while minimizing trauma to the periodontal ligament space. The episode then dives into one of the most critical surgical risks in small breed dogs: How do you avoid damaging the mandibular canal during mandibular first molar extraction? Dr. Beckman clarifies: - Why the root is not actually "in the canal" unless bone has been destroyed - Why aggressive torque leads to mandibular fractures - Why extensive bone removal reduces fracture risk - The importance of gentle, sustained elevation (minimum 15 seconds or longer) - Why two-finger control prevents catastrophic outcomes He also addresses one of the most misunderstood procedures in veterinary dentistry: Is crown amputation ever acceptable in dogs? The answer is clear: - Crown amputation is only appropriate in cases of complete root replacement resorption (typically in cats) - Retained roots in dogs are not acceptable and may border on malpractice - Proper flap creation and closure are mandatory when performing partial extraction procedures Additional clinical pearls include: - Managing vestibular bone expansion during feline canine extraction - When a buccinator release is necessary — and when it is not - Proper bur selection (699L vs 701L cross-cut tapered fissure burs) - Instrument choices for small breed dogs, large dogs, and cats - How to handle friable gingival tissue during flap closure - Why attached gingiva must be preserved adjacent to healthy teeth - When advanced flap techniques are required - Thoughts on serrated elevators in general practice Throughout the episode, Dr. Beckman emphasizes surgical precision, controlled force, and predictable technique to reduce complications such as mandibular fracture, retained roots, and flap failure. ------------------------------------------------------- What You'll Learn: ✅ The difference between a luxator and an elevator in veterinary dentistry ✅ How to safely extract mandibular first molars in small breed dogs ✅ Why torque causes mandibular fractures ✅ When crown amputation is appropriate — and when it is not ✅ Proper bone removal technique for safe extractions ✅ Which burs to use for canine tooth extraction ✅ How to manage vestibular bone expansion in cats ✅ How to handle friable tissue during flap closure ✅ Why gentle, sustained elevation improves outcomes Questions This Episode Answers: ❓ What's the difference between a luxator and an elevator? ❓ How do I avoid damaging the mandibular canal? ❓ When is crown amputation acceptable? ❓ Do retained roots need to be removed if they're quiet? ❓ What bur should I use for canine extraction? ❓ What do I do if the gingiva is too friable to suture? ❓ Are serrated elevators helpful? PerioVive is offering: ✔ A FREE 30-minute consultation with a board-certified veterinary dentist or VTS in dentistry ✔ A FREE sample of the product for use in your practice Hyaluronic acid supports pain management in extraction sites and regenerative capabilities in veterinary dental procedures. Take advantage of this offer here: https://ivdi.org/ha ------------------------------------------------------- Questions? Leave a comment below with your clinical experiences or challenges in veterinary extractions. ------------------------------------------------------- veterinary dentistry, veterinary tooth extraction, veterinary extractions, luxator vs elevator, dental elevator veterinary, luxator veterinary dentistry, mandibular canal dog, mandibular fracture prevention, small breed dog dental extraction, canine tooth extraction veterinary, feline canine extraction, crown amputation veterinary, retained root tips dog, veterinary dental burs 701L 699L, cross cut fissure bur veterinary, periodontal ligament space, veterinary oral surgery, gingival flap closure veterinary, friable gingiva extraction, Brett Beckman veterinary dentistry
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    11 m
  • Episode 213 - Extraction Mistakes You Must Avoid in Vet Dentistry

    Episode 213 - Extraction Mistakes You Must Avoid in Vet Dentistry
    Feb 25 2026
    Transform how you manage extraction sites and periodontal pockets — get a FREE 30-minute consultation with a specialist + a FREE sample of PerioVive for your practice: 👉 https://ivdi.org/ha ------------------------------------------------------- Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, DVM, FAVD, DAVDC, DAAPM ------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of The Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman answers real-world questions from recent online veterinary dentistry trainings—covering extraction decision-making, radiographic interpretation, and modern periodontal therapy in general practice. The discussion begins with a common and controversial question: Is it ever okay to leave a root tip? Dr. Beckman explains when root tips must be removed, when monitoring is acceptable, and why proper training in surgical extractions is essential to avoid long-term complications and liability issues. The episode also clarifies the radiographic "Chevron sign" — a normal lucency seen around certain tooth apices in dogs — and how to distinguish normal anatomy from true pathology. Dr. Beckman then addresses key workflow questions: - Should radiographs be taken before or after cleaning? - Why you should not scale teeth that are going to be extracted - How proper sequencing improves efficiency and anesthesia safety He also tackles one of the most misunderstood clinical decisions in general practice: What to do with a discolored tooth that looks normal on radiographs. Spoiler: discoloration almost always means a non-vital tooth — and that means treatment. The conversation continues with: - How to approach discovering a previously retained root tip from another practice - When (if ever) products like Clindoral or doxycycline are indicated - Why hyaluronic acid (PerioVive) has replaced older doxycycline-based products - How hyaluronic acid reduces postoperative pain in extraction sites - Surgical principles for extracting teeth close to neighboring roots without causing damage - Why cleaning prior to extraction does not reduce infection risk Throughout the episode, Dr. Beckman emphasizes practical, repeatable systems that make extractions safer, more predictable, and more efficient in everyday veterinary practice. What You'll Learn: ✅ When retained root tips must be removed vs. monitored ✅ How to recognize a normal "Chevron sign" on radiographs ✅ Why radiographs should be taken before cleaning ✅ Why scaling teeth scheduled for extraction wastes anesthesia time ✅ Why discolored teeth are almost always non-vital ✅ When to recommend root canal vs. extraction ✅ How to handle discovering a previously retained root tip ✅ Why hyaluronic acid has replaced doxycycline products ✅ How HA improves pain control in extraction sites ✅ How to avoid trauma when extracting teeth near adjacent roots Key Takeaways: ✅ Do not intentionally leave root tips during extractions ✅ Normal apical lucencies (Chevron signs) are not pathology ✅ Radiographs first = better estimates, safer anesthesia, smarter workflow ✅ Discolored teeth require treatment even if radiographs appear normal ✅ Hyaluronic acid improves attachment gain and postoperative comfort ✅ Proper surgical technique eliminates concerns about cleaning before extraction ✅ Education and wet lab training are critical for extraction competency Questions This Episode Answers: ❓ Is it ever acceptable to leave a root tip behind? ❓ What is a Chevron sign on dental radiographs? ❓ Should I take radiographs before or after scaling? ❓ Do discolored teeth always need treatment? ❓ How should I handle finding a retained root tip from another clinic? ❓ Are doxycycline products still indicated? ❓ Does cleaning before extraction reduce infection risk? ❓ How do I safely extract teeth that are very close together? ------------------------------------------------------- PerioVive is offering: ✔ A FREE 30-minute consultation with a board-certified veterinary dentist or VTS in dentistry ✔ A FREE sample of the product for use in your practice Hyaluronic acid has become a staple in modern veterinary dentistry for pain management, attachment gain, and regenerative support in both extraction and periodontal cases. Take advantage of this offer here: https://ivdi.org/ha ------------------------------------------------------- Questions? Leave a comment below with your thoughts, clinical experiences, or case challenges in veterinary dentistry. ------------------------------------------------------- Veterinary Dentistry, IVDI, Vet Dental Show, Brett Beckman, Root Tips, Discolored Teeth, Dental Radiographs, Chevron Sign, Veterinary Extractions, Hyaluronic Acid, PerioVive, Periodontal Therapy, Veterinary CE, Veterinary Education
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    12 m