Veterinary professionals Jan Bellows, DVM, DAVDC, DABVP, FAVD, and Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, emphasized the importance of shifting terminology from “dental cleanings” to COPAT (Comprehensive Oral Prevention Assessment and Treatment) during a recent discussion on the Vet Blast Podcast. The conversation coincided with February, recognized as Pet Dental Health Awareness Month.
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Dr. Bellows noted that many pet owners equate dental procedures with preventative care, while in reality, many visits are necessitated by existing periodontal disease. He advocated for prioritizing prevention in every veterinary visit, whether for a dental check or other health issues like lameness or skin problems. Emphasizing the importance of educating clients about at-home dental care, Bellows suggested recommending tooth brushing, dental wipes, and VOHC-accredited chews at every opportunity.
The discussion also highlighted the significance of dental imaging. Dr. Bellows pointed out that 60% of a pet’s tooth structure is below the gum line, contrasting with only 30% for humans. He stressed the necessity of taking full mouth radiographs during dental assessments to ensure a comprehensive understanding of a pet's oral health, as many dental issues can be overlooked without proper imaging.
To better engage clients, Bellows proposed incorporating dental care into wellness plans, thereby allowing clients to spread costs over time. He also mentioned utilizing technology, such as sending clients images of their pet’s radiographs via text, to facilitate informed decisions about treatment options.
Looking ahead, a dental disease webinar titled "Say Yes to Dentistry!" is scheduled for February 24, 2026, featuring speaker Kristin I. Scott, DVM, DAVDC. The webinar will aim to equip veterinary professionals with strategies for enhancing client understanding and compliance regarding dental care.
Listeners can access the full conversation on The Vet Blast Podcast, available at 5 PM EST on platforms where podcasts are streamed.