VETS 442 - Advanced Companion Animal Dentistry

Credit Hours: 3
Lecture Hours: 2
Laboratory Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): Enrollment in BS Veterinary Technology degree program or permission from instructor

Restriction(s): Major restricted

Corequisite(s): None

This hands-on laboratory course is designed to enhance students’ knowledge and skills in veterinary dentistry. Students will gain experience in clientele communication through the use of outside animals, a group project and mock client interaction. Students will be able to perform a basic complete dental prophylaxis including general radiography through the use of models, specimen and live patients. There will be online lecture, discussion and forums to analyze and discuss dental abnormalities and disease as well as advanced techniques students may encounter in practice. There is a one hour recitation to discuss didactic knowledge necessary for passing the VTNE.

Student Learning Outcomes of the Course:

Student will understand the veterinary anatomy of companion animals and equines as well as normal and abnormal presentations of dental disease in companion animals
Student will interact with their team while anesthetizing a companion animal and performing a complete dental prophylaxis
Student will describe the structure of teeth and supporting tissues
The student will be able to correctly identify, number and chart companion animal teeth.
The student will perform dental radiography on skull models and live animals as medically indicated
Student will be able to perform an oral exam and estimate the severity of oral disease on an awake canine and feline patient
The student will be able to describe the purpose and basic procedure for regional anesthesia blocks
The student will be describe and discuss possible abnormalities of the tooth, malocclusions and oral medical diseases
The student will be able to describe indications for periodontal surgery and described commonly performed endodontic procedures
The student will be able to educate clients on good at-home dental care (teeth brushing) as well as why good dental care and prophylaxis are important