Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry “The podcast for veterinary dental teams—hosted by Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry).”
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dentistry on the Wild Side with Loic Legendre | 21 Feb 2026 | 00:56:42 | |
Dentistry on the Wildside | Wildlife, Zoo & Exotic Animal Dentistry with Dr. Loïc Legendre What does it take to perform dentistry on a tiger… a bear… or a rabbit? In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, I sit down with Loïc Legendre, DVM, DAVDC, DEVDC, AVDC-ZWD, a globally respected boarded veterinary dentist with advanced credentials in Zoo and Wildlife Dentistry. Dr. Legendre practices at West Coast Veterinary Dental Services Ltd., a specialty dental referral center, where he works alongside another boarded dentist and two residents. His areas of interest include orthodontics, maxillofacial reconstruction, companion exotic dentistry, and wildlife dentistry across the globe. In this episode, we discuss: • Wildlife and zoo dentistry — what really happens behind the scenes And yes… he answers the question: 👉 “What is the weirdest thing you’ve ever found inside the oral cavity of an animal that didn’t belong there?” This episode is both inspiring and practical for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, students, and anyone passionate about advancing veterinary dentistry across species. Because dentistry — whether in a Labrador, a rabbit, or a lion — demands preparation, discipline, and respect for anatomy. 🎓 Learn more about continuing education and resources at: 📲 Connect with me:
https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| Dental Care for Aging Pets, Clinical Decisons that Matter with Dr. Heidi Lobprise DAVDC | 01 Feb 2026 | 00:56:23 | |
Dr. Lobprise is a 1983 Texas A & M graduate. She became board-certified in dentistry in 1993 after 20 years of practice. After 10 years in industry and teaching, she returned to dental specialty practice in 2014, semi-retired. She is the author/co-author of three dental texts, has written many chapters and articles, and has lectured internationally. She also written articles and chapters and lectured about senior pet care, including the newly released Small Animal Senior Care – Clinical Companion to Five Minute Veterinary Consult. She contributed to the 2023 AAHA Senior Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats, two dental guidelines, and serves on the Grey Muzzle Advisory Board. This episode explores the many ways veterinary professionals can advocate for senior pets while providing safer, more comprehensive oral and dental care to improve the quality of life for these patients. Don't miss these concepts that will help you take your knowledge of dental care for aging dogs and cats to the next level of understanding and expertise. Homepage | The Grey Muzzle Organization Safe Pet Anesthesia - Safe Pet Anesthesia https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| "Reading Between the Roots" Common Interpretation Errors in Veterinary Dental Radiography | 15 Jan 2026 | 00:56:45 | |
Dental radiographs only improve patient care if we understand what we’re truly seeing. In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, Benita Altier is joined by Brenda Mulherin, DVM, DAVDC, boarded veterinary dentist, professor at Iowa State University, and author of Veterinary Oral Diagnostic Imaging, for an in-depth discussion on common interpretation errors in veterinary dental radiography. Together, they explore why image quality matters, how cognitive bias leads to misinterpretation, the importance of a repeatable interpretation system, and how confirming findings across multiple views prevents missed or inappropriate treatment. The conversation also tackles the challenges of recognizing normal anatomy, interpreting tooth resorption, and building long-term confidence when reading dental radiographs. This episode is essential listening for veterinary professionals who want to improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce uncertainty, and make better clinical decisions at the dental table. https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| "The Perfect Partnership" The General Practice-Dental Specialty Referral Relationship | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:41:41 | |
In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, host Benita Altier sits down with Dr. Naomi Hoyer, DVM, DAVDC, to explore the vital relationship between general practitioners and specialty veterinary dentistry. Together, they discuss how to recognize when a dental referral is appropriate, what the referral process actually looks like, and how collaborative case management can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved — the general practitioner, the client, and most importantly, the patient. Dr. Hoyer shares real-world case examples, practical decision-making tips, and insight into how referral partnerships enhance patient care while strengthening trust between veterinary teams. Whether you’re unsure when to refer, curious about what happens after the referral, or looking to build stronger specialty relationships, this episode provides clarity, confidence, and actionable guidance. Key Takeaways:
https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Introduction | 04 Dec 2025 | 00:03:14 | |
Welcome to Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast | Episode 0 Join host Benita Altier, a Licensed Veterinary Technician and Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in Dentistry, as she introduces the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast. Discover the often-overlooked importance of dental health in pets and get a preview of in-depth discussions with leaders in the field. Learn about dental pathology, radiology, anesthesia, practice growth strategies, and more. Get ready to enhance your veterinary practice with insights from top professionals like Dr. Naomi Hoyer of Colorado State University, coming next in episode two! Follow us for practical, real-world education to elevate your veterinary dentistry care. https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| How Veterinary Dentistry Became a Specialty (Part 1) | A 50-Year Journey with Dr. Eisner | 18 Apr 2026 | 00:45:10 | |
This episode explores the history of veterinary dentistry and how the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) and the Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians (AVDT) became recognized specialties. What did veterinary dentistry look like 50 years ago… and how did it evolve into the advanced specialty we practice today? In Part 1 of this two-part series, Dr. Edward Eisner takes us on a firsthand journey through the transformation of veterinary dentistry in the United States. From a time when dentistry was often overlooked… to the formation of organized leadership, education, and specialty recognition — this episode captures the pivotal moments that shaped the field. Dr. Eisner shares the inside story of how the American Veterinary Dental Society was formed, and how the specialty ultimately gained recognition through the American Veterinary Dental College under the American Veterinary Medical Association and its American Board of Veterinary Specialties. We also explore his 40-year relationship with Peter Emily, a human dentist whose mentorship and collaboration helped elevate veterinary dentistry worldwide. And in a defining moment for the veterinary team, Dr. Eisner discusses his role in helping establish the Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians — alongside 12 pioneering technicians — creating the pathway for the Veterinary Technician Specialty in Dentistry, recognized through the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America and the Committee on Veterinary Technician Specialties. This episode is more than history — it’s the story of how a specialty was built. 👉 In Part 2, Dr. Eisner shares what he’s working on today, the passion projects that continue to drive him, and his vision for where veterinary dentistry is headed over the next 50 years. KEY TOPICS COVERED veterinary dentistry history, AVDC, American Veterinary Dental College, veterinary dental specialty, AVDT, Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians, NAVTA, veterinary technician specialty dentistry, veterinary dental education, animal dentistry evolution, dental care for pets, veterinary oral health, periodontal disease in dogs and cats, veterinary CE dentistry WHO THIS EPISODE IS FOR • Veterinarians interested in dentistry WHY THIS MATTERS Understanding the history of veterinary dentistry helps clinicians: Show Resources: https://avdc.org/ https://www.avdt.us/ https://veterinarydentistry.org/ https://peteremilyfoundation.org/ Zoo and Wild Animal Dentistry Peter P. Emily DDS,, Edward R. Eisner AB, DVM, First published:19 March 2021 Print ISBN:9781119545811 |Online ISBN:9781119545804 |DOI:10.1002/9781119545804 © 2021 John Wiley & Sons, Inc https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/book/10.1002/9781119545804 https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| "Veterinary Dentistry is a Team Sport" with Kris Bannon FAVD, DAVDC | 01 Apr 2026 | 01:11:16 | |
In this episode, host Benita Altier explores how successful veterinary dental care requires coordinated teamwork across the entire practice with Dr. Kris Bannon, a board-certified dental specialist and former president of the American Veterinary Dental Society. From front desk receptionists screening for oral-nasal fistulas to technicians managing critical anesthesia monitoring, every team member plays a vital role—and the two-technician-per-patient model is non-negotiable for patient safety. Dr. Bannon emphasizes the importance of strong diagnostic training for general practitioners, appropriate referral relationships with specialists, and management support for sustainable dental programs. Organizations & Resources: https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| On the Front Lines of Periodontal care, Why Veterinary Technicians Have a Critical Role. | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:54:18 | |
In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, host Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry) sits down with Heidi Olivier, CVT, VTS (Dentistry) to explore the essential role veterinary technicians play in the treatment of periodontal disease. PerioVive Research
https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| "Tooth Fractures in Dogs and Cats and the Veterinary Technicians Role in Endodontics" with Amy Edwards RVT VTS Dentistry | 04 Mar 2026 | 01:10:51 | |
Tooth fractures are among the most common findings in veterinary dentistry — and among the most painful conditions our patients experience. In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, host Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry), is joined by Amy Edwards, RVT, VTS (Dentistry), to discuss the veterinary technician’s role in recognizing tooth fractures, understanding fracture classifications, and supporting the dental team in caring for fractured teeth in dogs and cats. Together, they discuss how technicians can identify potential pulp exposure, obtain and interpret diagnostic dental radiographs, support endodontic procedures, and educate clients on treatment options and fracture prevention. This conversation highlights how veterinary technicians elevate patient care through strong dental assessments, teamwork, and client communication. Find Pawsitive Dental Education at https://pawsitivedental.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitivedental/ https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| Full Mouth Extractions for FCGS: Is It the Only Option? with Dr. Maria Soltero Rivera | 10 May 2026 | 01:09:54 | |
Chronic Feline Gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is one of the most painful and frustrating oral diseases encountered in feline patients. Cats with FCGS often suffer from severe oral inflammation, difficulty eating, weight loss, and chronic pain — leaving veterinary teams and cat caregivers searching for answers. For many patients, full-mouth or near full-mouth extractions remain the gold standard treatment. But is surgery always the answer? And why do some cats continue to struggle even after extractions? In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, host Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry) is joined by Dr. Maria Soltero Rivera to discuss the evolving science behind feline chronic gingivostomatitis and what current research reveals about this complex disease. Together they explore: • What FCGS actually is and why it develops This episode provides practical clinical insight for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, students, and anyone involved in the care of feline dental patients. If you’ve ever struggled with an FCGS case — or helped guide a client through the difficult decision of full-mouth extractions — this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Show Resources: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1098612X231186834?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20% www.avdc.org www.avdt.us #VeterinaryDentistry #VetMed #VeterinaryTechnician #FelineMedicine #CatDentistry #FCGS #VeterinaryPodcast www.avdc.org www.avdt.us https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| Young Dogs & Tooth Fractures: Modern Treatment Options with Dr. Sandra Manfra Marretta | 19 May 2026 | 00:58:10 | |
What should you do when a young dog fractures a tooth that is still developing? Is extraction always the best option—or can these teeth actually be saved? In this episode of the Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry Podcast, host Benita Altier, LVT, VTS (Dentistry) sits down with Dr. Sandra Manfra Marretta to discuss one of the most important and misunderstood topics in veterinary dentistry: the management of immature permanent teeth with crown fractures in dogs. Dr. Manfra Marretta is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, a Charter Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College, and an AVDC and ACVS Founding Fellow in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Drawing from decades of experience in veterinary oral surgery and her published review paper on this topic, she shares practical insights that every veterinary professional can apply in practice. In this episode, we discuss: Whether you are a veterinarian, veterinary technician, student, or someone passionate about veterinary dentistry, this episode delivers valuable clinical insight into improving long-term outcomes for young patients with traumatic dental injuries. Research Article https://sage.cnpereading.com/doi/10.1177/08987564211046325 🎙️ Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to or watch podcasts. Connect with Pawsitive Dental Education Website: YouTube: Facebook: Instagram: TikTok: #VeterinaryDentistry https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| Complex Cases: Cleft Palate Surgery with Dr. Kendall Taney, DAVDC, Fellow OMFS | 10 Jul 2026 | 00:59:54 | |
Cleft palate surgery in puppies and kittens is one of the most complex procedures in veterinary dentistry — and success depends on far more than the surgery itself. In this episode, Dr. Kendall Taney, DAVDC, Fellow OMFS, walks through real case examples covering the full journey of cleft palate repair in young patients. We cover how to prepare young, fragile patients — getting them healthy and large enough to safely undergo surgery — and how imaging, including cone beam CT and dental radiology, guides surgical planning. Dr. Taney also breaks down the surgical approach itself, along with post-operative care: pain management protocols and the anesthetized follow-up exam that confirms a successful repair. Whether you're a general practice veterinarian, vet tech, or dental team member, this episode gives you practical, real-world guidance on managing complex cleft palate cases in both puppies and kittens — from first exam to full recovery. Topics covered: early detection • patient preparation • anesthesia risk management • cone beam CT imaging • dental radiology • surgical timing • cleft palate repair technique • pain management • anesthetized follow-up exam Show Resources: https://www.kittencarelab.org/recipe-for-eepie-bites https://www.facebook.com/groups/651982131915440/about/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/568900853174932/about/ https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/253/11/javma.253.11.1445.xml https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/ajvr/78/8/ajvr.78.8.926.xml https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1532-950X.2014.12129.x Where to find Dr. Kendall Taney: Center for Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Surgery Connect with us: #VeterinaryDentistry #CleftPalate #VetSurgery #OMFS #DAVDC #VeterinaryMedicine #VetTech #SmallAnimalSurgery #ConeBeamCT #DentalRadiology #PainManagement #PuppyHealth #KittenHealth #AnimalSurgery https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| Dr. Robert Bruce Wiggs: Veterinary Dentistry Pioneer Who Invented the Wiggs Winged Elevator | 23 Jun 2026 | 00:53:39 | |
In this special tribute episode, Dr. Heidi Lobprise, DAVDC, shares the remarkable legacy of her mentor and co-author, Dr. Robert Bruce Wiggs — one of the founding figures of veterinary dentistry in North America. Dr. Lobprise recounts how she became Dr. Wiggs' dental resident, the cases they worked together, and their landmark collaboration on the 1997 textbook Veterinary Dentistry: Principles and Practice — one of the first comprehensive references in the field. You'll hear the story behind the Wiggs Winged Elevator, a specialized dental extraction instrument invented by Dr. Wiggs that is now widely used in veterinary practices around the world. From its design to its clinical application, this instrument stands as a lasting tribute to his ingenuity. This episode is essential listening for any veterinary professional who wants to understand where veterinary dentistry came from — and the people who built it. 🎙️ Guest: Dr. Heidi Lobprise, DAVDC https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| Oral Masses in Dogs, What Every Vet Needs to Know with Dr. Stephanie Goldschmidt | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:50:58 | |
Oral masses in dogs are common. Ignoring them is not an option. Dr. Stephanie Goldschmidt — Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist, Fellow of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, and professor at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine — joins us for a comprehensive, clinically practical conversation on canine oral cancer. We cover the full picture: biopsy, imaging, staging, surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, prognosis, palliative care, and when referral is the right call. Dr. Goldschmidt also addresses why even a mass that looks alarming may have treatment options — and why the ones that look benign should never be dismissed. This episode is essential listening for primary care veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and anyone whose patients include dogs. Packed with clinical pearls you can apply immediately. Topics covered: canine oral tumors, oral cancer diagnosis in dogs, veterinary dentistry, biopsy techniques, oral mass staging, surgery options, when to refer in veterinary medicine, palliative care for pets, and veterinary oncology. Referenced Research The diagnostic yield of preoperative screening for oral cancer in dogs over 15 years, part 1: locoregional screeninghttps://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||
| "The Block Stops Here" Regional Dental Anesthesia and Leading Your Team | 09 Aug 2026 | 01:11:32 | |
Regional nerve blocks are one of the most effective pain control tools in veterinary dentistry — but the technique is only half the story. Dr. Chris Snyder, President of the American Veterinary Dental College and Hospital Director at UW–Madison, joins Pawsitive Veterinary Dentistry to break down infraorbital and inferior alveolar nerve blocks, what his research on bupivacaine and buprenorphine revealed about analgesic duration, and how to lead a dental team that actually uses these tools consistently. Whether you're a GP without advanced imaging or a practice owner trying to build a stronger dental service, this episode covers the clinical technique and the team leadership that makes it stick. Guest resources & full publication list: https://www.vetmed.wisc.edu/people/christopher-snyder/ #VeterinaryDentistry #RegionalAnesthesia #NerveBlock #AVDC #VetMed #VeterinaryLeadership #DogDentalCare #CatDentalCare https://www.youtube.com/@PawsitiveDentalEducation https://pawsitivedental.com/podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pawsitive.dental https://www.instagram.com/pawsitivedental/ www.linkedin.com/in/pawsitivedental | |||