When it comes to pet healthcare, dental care is just as crucial as general medical care. Many pet owners may not realize that veterinarians can specialize in dentistry, ensuring that their pets receive expert oral health care. A Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist™ is a highly trained professional who has completed advanced education and rigorous examinations to become an expert in veterinary dentistry.
At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Missouri, our Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist™, Dr. Robert Ulbricht, has over 20 years of experience in treating oral health conditions in dogs and cats.
The Path to Becoming a Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist
Not all veterinarians are specialists in dentistry. A veterinarian who wishes to become board-certified in dentistry must undergo extensive additional training beyond veterinary school. The process includes:
- Earning a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Degree – After completing undergraduate studies, a veterinarian must graduate from an accredited veterinary school.
- Undergoing a Residency in Veterinary Dentistry – A veterinarian would then apply and be accepted into a residency program that is approved by the American Veterinary Dental College. The residency would be supervised by a Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College.
- Meeting Case and Research Requirements – Throughout this 3-year residency, candidates must log a significant number of cases, conduct research, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
- Passing Comprehensive Examinations – A multi-phase examination assesses the candidate’s theoretical knowledge and clinical proficiency in veterinary dentistry.
Upon successful completion of these steps, the veterinarian earns the title of Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College (DAVDC), signifying their expertise in veterinary dentistry.
Why Choose a Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist?
A general practice veterinarian can perform basic dental care, such as cleanings and extractions. However, more complex procedures require specialized knowledge and skills. A board-certified veterinary dentist is qualified to handle:
- Advanced Oral Surgeries – Treatment of jaw fractures, oral tumors, and palate defects.
- Endodontic Procedures – Root canals and other treatments to save teeth.
- Orthodontics for Pets – Correcting misaligned teeth that cause pain or difficulty eating.
- Periodontal Disease Management – Addressing severe gum disease, a leading cause of tooth loss in pets.
- Comprehensive Dental X-Rays & Imaging – Using specialized equipment to assess dental health below the gum line.
The Importance of Veterinary Dental Care
Poor oral health can lead to serious health issues in pets, including heart disease, kidney disease, and chronic pain. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings by a qualified veterinary dentist can help prevent these complications and improve a pet’s overall well-being.
Veterinary Dentist in St. Louis
A Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist™ possesses advanced training and expertise to provide the highest level of dental care for pets. Whether your pet needs a routine cleaning or a complex oral surgery, our team at Veterinary Dental Specialists of Missouri is here to help. Contact our office today to book your pet’s appointment!
Photo by Veronika Jorjobert from Unsplash – Used under Creative Commons License (2/12/25).