VSPN Review by Christine Secor, LVT (Click on stars for an explanation)

This book is Out of Print.

This is an excellent book for the veterinary team which wants to expand their practice to include dentistry. It is everything you wanted to know about dentistry and were afraid to ask. Written for the technician and staff, it covers all aspects from anatomy to equipment, procedures, and home care. Each chapter has numerous photographs, charts, tables and an end of chapter worksheet.

Chapter 1 includes anatomic and Triadan numbering systems with dental charts for the dog and cat. Chapter 2, Oral Exam and Disease Recognition, gives descriptions of the more common diseases and a list of diagnostic codes adapted from the AVDC recommendations. Chapter 3 includes most common dental instruments you will need as well as instructions on how to sharpen and maintain equipment. Chapter 4 on Personal Safety and Ergonomics is a must read as it includes safety, posture, stretching and strengthening exercises for the veterinary technician who is involved in dentistry on a daily basis. There are two additional chapters on marketing and commonly asked questions to aid in day to day encounters with clients and their owners.

A chapter on anesthesia and monitoring the patient by Meghan T. Richey, DVM, MS and Charles J. McGrath, DVM is also included. This chapter addresses the unique airway management and possible problems encountered during use of general anesthesia while performing dental procedures. The book addresses periodontal disease and therapy, exodontics, dental radiology, endodontic, restorations, and orthodontics. Two additional chapters on feline dentistry address some of the unique problems encountered when working with cats as well as a chapter on pocket pets to complete this must have book.

While there are numerous black-and-white photographs, some are lacking detail and contrast. It would be helpful to see some color pictures and a glossary at the end of the book for the numerous dental terms which one encounters throughout the book. Despite a few shortcomings, I highly recommend this book for all veterinarians who would like to fully utilize their technicians, staff and wish to expand their care to include dentistry. It is an essential text for teaching and as a desk reference in practice.

Publisher: Saunders, Philadelphia, PA (2000).

354 pgs (soft cover).

ISBN-13: 978-0-7216-8187-0.