In this episode of the WSAVA Podcast, interviewer Izzie Tsai speaks with two experienced clinicians about why accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective dental care, and how much disease can be missed when diagnostics are underused.

First, Ana Nemec discusses the role of dental radiography in everyday practice. She explains why visual examination alone can underestimate pathology, and reflects on the importance of image quality, technique, and appropriate case selection when incorporating radiographs into clinical decision-making.

In the second conversation, Jan Bellows focuses on early detection and routine oral examination. He explores why dental disease is frequently overlooked, the value of consistently examining the oral cavity, and how simple diagnostic tools can improve communication and patient outcomes.

Together, these conversations reinforce a clear message: careful examination and appropriate imaging are central to responsible, evidence-based dental care.

Resources & Links

• WSAVA Global Dental Committee
• WSAVA Global Dental Guidelines  
• WSAVA Educational Resources  
• Evaluation of extraction sites for evidence of retained tooth roots and periapical pathology
  
  

Contributors

• Ana Nemec, DVM, PhD, Dipl. AVDC, Dipl. EVDC, Assist. prof. – Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
• Jan Bellows, DVM, DIPL, AVDC, ABVP (Canine & Feline Practice) 
• Izzie Yi-Chin Tsai, DVM, MVM – Facebook | Blog | Instagram

This podcast was edited and produced by Contento Media Ltd.