8 Best-Selling Veterinary Dentistry Books Millions Trust

Discover Veterinary Dentistry Books authored by leading experts like Colin E. Harvey and Steven E. Holmstrom, offering best-selling, expert-backed insights.

Updated on June 26, 2025
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There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love—especially in veterinary dentistry, where precise knowledge directly impacts animal health. These 8 best-selling Veterinary Dentistry books have attracted widespread attention for their practical approaches to complex dental care challenges faced by veterinarians and technicians alike.

Authored by seasoned professionals such as Colin E. Harvey, Steven E. Holmstrom DVM, and Cecilia Gorrel, these texts blend deep clinical experience with clear instruction. Their impact on veterinary practice is evident, providing trusted frameworks that have helped countless professionals improve care and outcomes for their animal patients.

While these books provide proven guidance, you might find even greater value by creating a personalized Veterinary Dentistry book tailored specifically to your background, skill level, and areas of interest. This way, you combine validated methods with content that fits your unique learning goals and real-world needs.

Steven E. Holmstrom, DVM, Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College, draws on decades of clinical experience in veterinary dentistry to craft this comprehensive manual. His collaboration with Patricia Frost Fitch, also a diplomate, ensures the book reflects the latest standards in dental care for small animals. Their combined expertise makes this guide an essential reference for veterinarians seeking to master dental techniques and improve patient outcomes through evidence-based practices.
Veterinary Dental Techniques for the Small Animal Practitioner book cover

by Steven E. Holmstrom DVM, Patricia Frost Fitch DVM, Edward R. Eisner DVM··You?

2004·704 pages·Veterinary Dentistry, Periodontal Care, Endodontics, Orthodontics, Oral Surgery

Steven E. Holmstrom and Patricia Frost Fitch bring their extensive expertise as diplomates of the American Veterinary Dental College to this authoritative guide for small animal practitioners. You gain detailed instruction on dental examination, charting, and practical techniques spanning periodontal care, endodontics, orthodontics, and oral surgery. The book also addresses clinical decision-making with chapters covering indications, contraindications, and equipment management, making it especially useful for veterinarians aiming to establish or enhance a dental department. Clear illustrations accompany stepwise procedures, while updated appendices provide resources for dental materials, ensuring you have both the how and the where to apply these skills effectively.

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Veterinary Dentistry for the Technician and Office Staff offers a clear, illustrated guide tailored for veterinary technicians and students. Its structured approach, moving from fundamental dental procedures to complex treatments like endodontics, reflects a deliberate effort to build practical skills systematically. Beyond clinical techniques, it addresses marketing and client interactions, acknowledging the technician's multifaceted role in veterinary dental care. This book's unique dental chart and focused chapters on cats and pocket pets expand its usefulness, making it a valuable reference for those supporting veterinarians in diverse dental cases.
1999·354 pages·Veterinary Dentistry, Dental Procedures, Oral Examination, Anesthesia, Endodontics

What started as a focused effort by Dr. Steven E. Holmstrom to equip veterinary technicians with practical dental knowledge has grown into a trusted textbook in the field. You gain a thorough understanding of dental procedures, from oral exams and anesthesia basics to advanced techniques like endodontics, all presented with clear illustrations and chapter summaries to reinforce learning. The inclusion of marketing strategies and client communication guides uniquely prepares you for real-world practice beyond clinical skills. This book suits veterinary technicians and students aiming to deepen their dental expertise and confidently support dentists in diverse cases, including special attention to cats and pocket pets.

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Best for personalized clinical mastery
This AI-created book on veterinary dentistry is tailored to your skill level and specific clinical interests. By focusing on your background and the dental challenges you face, it delivers targeted knowledge that fits your goals. Personalization matters in veterinary dentistry because every practice encounters unique cases and needs a precise approach. This custom book helps you quickly grasp the methods that will make the biggest impact for your patients and practice.
2025·50-300 pages·Veterinary Dentistry, Dental Anatomy, Periodontal Care, Oral Surgery, Anesthesia Protocols

This tailored book explores battle-tested veterinary dentistry methods designed to address your unique clinical challenges. It combines widely trusted knowledge with insights that match your background and interests, ensuring a focused and efficient learning experience. The book covers core dental techniques, common oral diseases, anesthesia protocols, and surgical procedures, all personalized to fit your professional goals. By concentrating on your specific needs, this personalized guide reveals practical ways to enhance dental care for animals. It emphasizes proven clinical practices while adapting explanations and depth to suit your expertise, helping you quickly master essential veterinary dentistry skills with confidence and clarity.

Tailored Guide
Clinical Dental Methods
3,000+ Books Created
Best for hands-on small animal technicians
Veterinary Dentistry for the Small Animal Technician stands out as a go-to resource for those entering veterinary dental care. Its straightforward approach covers everything from anatomy and diagnostic X-rays to complex periodontal treatments, tailored specifically for veterinary technicians. The book’s detailed illustrations and clear guidance on client education make it especially valuable for technicians who play a critical role in both clinical procedures and communicating with pet owners. By focusing on the technician's perspective, it addresses practical challenges and supports effective dental care for small animals.
2000·267 pages·Veterinary Dentistry, Dental Anatomy, Periodontal Disease, Dental Radiography, Anesthesia

Veterinary Dentistry for the Small Animal Technician offers a practical, focused look at the essential skills a veterinary technician needs in dental care. M. Lynne Kesel, writing from her deep understanding of small animal dentistry, breaks down complex procedures such as periodontal disease management, dental radiography, and anesthesia administration into clear, manageable steps. You’ll find detailed explanations on creating dental charts and assisting with extractions or orthodontic procedures, supported by over 100 illustrative figures. If you’re involved in veterinary dental practice or training, this book equips you with the technical know-how to support veterinarians effectively and educate pet owners on dental health.

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Best for veterinary nursing professionals
Cecilia Gorrel is a world authority on veterinary dentistry with unparalleled experience in animal dentistry and oral surgery. Her expertise forms the backbone of this manual, crafted specifically for veterinary nurses and technicians to navigate the complexities of animal dental care. Together with Susan Derbyshire, a listed veterinary nurse, they bring over a decade of combined clinical insight to guide you through practical dental procedures and clinic management.
Veterinary Dentistry for the Nurse and Technician book cover

by Cecilia Gorrel BSc MA VetMB DDS MRCVS HonFAVD DEVDC, Susan Derbyshire··You?

2005·176 pages·Veterinary Dentistry, Veterinary Nursing, Dental Procedures, Dental Radiography, Preventive Dentistry

When Cecilia Gorrel's decades of experience in veterinary dentistry met Susan Derbyshire's practical nursing expertise, they created a manual tailored specifically for veterinary nurses and technicians. You’ll gain hands-on knowledge about essential dental procedures, from equipment maintenance to anesthesia protocols, all framed within the realities of small animal practice. The book dives into preventive dentistry and dental radiography, offering clear instructions backed by real clinical insights, such as running an efficient dental clinic and tips from seasoned oral care professionals. If you’re involved in day-to-day animal dental care, this book lays out the skills and confidence you need without overwhelming you with unnecessary detail.

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Best for small animal dental surgery
Small Animal Dentistry offers a focused exploration of dental care in small animals, reflecting the expertise of its authors at the University of Pennsylvania. Its detailed treatment of oral lesions, surgical methods, and restorative techniques, supported by vivid photographs, addresses the practical needs of veterinary professionals. This book meets the demand for authoritative guidance in veterinary dentistry, providing practitioners with the diagnostic and clinical tools necessary to improve patient outcomes in small animal dental health.
Small Animal Dentistry book cover

by Colin E. Harvey BVSc FRCVS DipACVS DipAVDC, Peter P. Emily DDS Cert Perio Hon Mem AVDC·You?

1993·413 pages·Veterinary Dentistry, Oral Surgery, Diagnostic Techniques, Restorative Dentistry, Oral Pathology

Drawing from extensive clinical experience at the University of Pennsylvania, Colin E. Harvey and Peter P. Emily crafted a detailed resource tailored for veterinary practitioners focused on the complexities of small animal dental care. You’ll find in-depth coverage of oral lesions, neoplasms, and surgical procedures alongside restorative dentistry techniques, all supported by clear color and halftone photographs to enhance understanding. The book also guides you through examination and diagnostic methods essential for accurate treatment planning. This text suits veterinarians and veterinary students seeking focused knowledge in small animal dentistry, offering practical insights without unnecessary jargon.

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Best for rapid dental improvements
This custom AI book on veterinary dental care is created based on your skill level and specific interests within veterinary dentistry. By sharing your background and goals, you receive a guide that focuses on practical, step-by-step methods suited to your daily veterinary practice. Personalizing the content means you spend less time sifting through broad material and more time honing in on what will truly improve dental outcomes for your patients.
2025·50-300 pages·Veterinary Dentistry, Dental Assessment, Periodontal Care, Oral Health, Dental Procedures

This tailored veterinary dentistry book offers a unique, focused exploration into effective dental care practices designed around your specific background and goals. It examines step-by-step actions that foster rapid improvements in animal oral health, blending established veterinary knowledge with techniques that address your personal interests and skill level. By concentrating on the aspects most relevant to you, this personalized guide reveals how to implement practical dental care processes that align with your day-to-day veterinary challenges. The book combines foundational dental principles with targeted applications, ensuring that you gain valuable insights and actionable understanding tailored to your unique professional context.

Tailored Book
Rapid Care Protocols
3,000+ Books Created
Best for foundational veterinary dentists
Colin E. Harvey's Veterinary Dentistry offers a focused exploration into the clinical practices essential for animal oral health. While this first edition dates back several decades, it retains value through its practical insights into diagnosis and treatment of dental conditions in veterinary settings. The book addresses the needs of veterinary professionals and students by laying out clear methods to manage oral diseases, emphasizing anatomy and clinical techniques. Its contribution lies in providing foundational knowledge that supports improved animal care in veterinary dentistry, making it a notable resource for those building their expertise in this specialized field.
Veterinary Dentistry book cover

by Colin E. Harvey·You?

1985·322 pages·Veterinary Dentistry, Oral Pathology, Dental Procedures, Animal Health, Preventive Care

What if everything you knew about veterinary dental care was challenged by Colin E. Harvey's detailed approach? Drawing from his extensive clinical experience, Harvey meticulously addresses the diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases in animals, emphasizing practical techniques and anatomical insights essential for veterinarians. You gain a clear understanding of oral pathology, dental procedures, and preventive care, with chapters that guide you through common challenges in the veterinary clinic. This book serves veterinary professionals and students eager to deepen their expertise in animal oral health, although those seeking more recent advances might need to supplement it with newer resources.

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Best for equine dental practitioners
Gordon Baker, BVSc, PhD, MRCVS, DiplACVS, serves as Professor and Head of Equine Medicine and Surgery at the University of Illinois, Urbana. His extensive expertise in equine health shapes this book, which reflects years of clinical practice and academic leadership. Baker’s authoritative perspective brings clarity to equine dental complexities, making the book a valuable resource for veterinary professionals seeking detailed knowledge of horse dentistry.
Equine Dentistry book cover

by Gordon Baker, Jack Easley··You?

2005·368 pages·Veterinary Dentistry, Equine Medicine, Dental Pathology, Oral Surgery, Diagnosis Techniques

What started as Gordon Baker's extensive work in equine medicine evolved into this detailed exploration of horse dental care, blending decades of clinical experience with academic rigor. You can expect to learn everything from the anatomy of equine teeth to diagnosing complex dental disorders, supported by richly illustrated sections on pathology and surgical complications. The book’s detailed chapters, such as those on dental disease in miniature horses and the history of teeth evolution, provide a depth that benefits veterinarians specializing in equine care and students entering this niche. If you want a thorough grounding in equine dental techniques and their practical applications, this book offers a solid foundation without oversimplifying the complexities involved.

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Best for small animal dental clinicians
This volume, led by veterinary dentist Steven E. Holmstrom, gathers expert reviews on prevalent dental treatments for dogs and cats, making it a valued resource in veterinary dentistry. Its focused coverage ranges from periodontics to complex procedures like mandibulectomy, addressing practical challenges faced in small animal practice. The book’s targeted articles provide clear guidance on conditions such as gingivostomatitis and fracture repair, supporting veterinarians striving for improved dental care outcomes in their patients.
2005·240 pages·Veterinary Dentistry, Small Animal Practice, Periodontics, Endodontics, Orthodontics

Drawing from his extensive experience as a veterinary dentist, Steven E. Holmstrom compiles expert insights on a range of dental issues affecting dogs and cats. This volume offers detailed reviews on periodontics, endodontics, and orthodontics, alongside focused discussions on procedures like tooth extraction and mandibulectomy. You’ll gain a clear understanding of complex cases such as gingivostomatitis and fracture repair, making it particularly useful if you’re involved in small animal practice or veterinary dentistry education. The book’s clinical approach suits veterinarians seeking depth on common yet challenging dental conditions without overwhelming you with unnecessary theory.

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Conclusion

These 8 Veterinary Dentistry books reveal clear themes: practical techniques grounded in clinical expertise, tailored instruction for veterinary technicians and nurses, and specialized knowledge for small animal and equine dental care. Their proven frameworks have earned widespread validation among professionals.

If you prefer established methods, start with Veterinary Dental Techniques for the Small Animal Practitioner and Veterinary Dentistry for the Technician and Office Staff. For focused clinical insights, combine Small Animal Dentistry with Dentistry, An Issue of Veterinary Clinics.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Veterinary Dentistry book to blend these popular approaches with your specific practice needs. These widely-adopted books have helped many succeed in advancing veterinary dental care.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "Veterinary Dental Techniques for the Small Animal Practitioner" for a strong foundation in practical dental procedures, especially if you work with small animals. It's detailed and accessible, helping you build core skills efficiently.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Veterinary Dentistry?

Not at all. Titles like "Veterinary Dentistry for the Technician and Office Staff" and "Veterinary Dentistry for the Nurse and Technician" are designed to guide newcomers through essential concepts and techniques with clear explanations and illustrations.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with technician-focused books for foundational skills, then move to specialized texts like "Small Animal Dentistry" or "Equine Dentistry" as your expertise grows. This progression helps solidify basic knowledge before tackling complex topics.

Do these books assume I already have experience in Veterinary Dentistry?

Some do, especially those targeting veterinarians like "Veterinary Dentistry" by Colin E. Harvey, but several are tailored to technicians and nurses, providing step-by-step guidance suitable for varying experience levels.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

"Veterinary Dental Techniques for the Small Animal Practitioner" offers practical, detailed instructions and clinical decision-making guidance that can be immediately applied in practice.

Can I get tailored Veterinary Dentistry insights instead of reading all these books?

Yes! While these expert books offer valuable knowledge, you can also create a personalized Veterinary Dentistry book that combines proven methods with content customized to your specific needs and goals for faster, focused learning.

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