Ep 138 - What Are the Best Practices for Treating Gingival Hyperplasia in Dogs?

Summary In this episode of the Vet Dental Show, Dr. Brett Beckman, Board Certified Veterinary Dentist, answers listener questions about managing gingival hyperplasia in boxers and other brachycephalic breeds. Dr. Beckman discusses the importance of radiographs before treatment, when to refer complex cases, and the nuances of dealing with epulides. Tune in for expert advice and practical tips to enhance your veterinary dental practice. Guest, Cast, and Crew Information Host: Dr. Brett Beckman, Board Certified Veterinary Dentist Sponsor: Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program Main Talking Points Introduction: Overview of the episode and sponsorship details. Listener Question: Mandy's question on treating gingival hyperplasia in boxers. Radiographs Importance: The necessity of taking radiographs before treatment. Treatment Approach: Steps to handle gingival hyperplasia and epulides. When to Refer: Guidance on referring complex brachycephalic cases. Histopathology: The importance of submitting tissue for histopathology. Maintenance and Follow-Up: Managing recurrent gingival hyperplasia. Interesting Quotes "You do not want to go in and start removing tissue without first taking radiographs." "Brachycephalic breeds often have dense cortical bone, making extractions more challenging." "Gingival hyperplasia will come back and requires maintenance every 6 to 18 months." Timestamps 00:00 - 00:30: Introduction 00:31 - 02:00: Listener Question from Mandy 02:01 - 04:00: Importance of Radiographs 04:01 - 06:00: Treatment Approach for Gingival Hyperplasia 06:01 - 08:00: When to Refer Complex Cases 08:01 - 10:00: Histopathology and Tissue Submission 10:01 - 11:30: Maintenance and Follow-Up 11:31 - 13:00: Summary and Conclusion [Veterinary dentistry, gingival hyperplasia, brachycephalic breeds, radiographs, dental extractions, epulides, histopathology, veterinary dental training, Dr. Brett Beckman] Key Points Summary Radiographs Importance: Always take full mouth radiographs before treating gingival hyperplasia. Treatment Approach: Remove affected teeth and contour tissue for closure. Referral Guidance: Refer complex brachycephalic cases to specialists. Histopathology: Submit all excised tissue for pathology to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Maintenance: Regular follow-up and maintenance are necessary for managing recurrent gingival hyperplasia. Affiliate & Sponsor Links IVDI.org/inv - Submit your request for an invitation to the Veterinary Dental Practitioner Program.