Dental x-rays reveal which teeth are healthy and which teeth are diseased. This must be done prior to extraction to reveal any underlying disease that has not been discovered. Extractions WILL NOT result in broken jaws if the extractions are done properly. With proper instrumentation and dental x-rays your veterinaian will know the best plan of attack to assure a successful outcome.
The principles of extraction include:
- The top 1/3 of the alveolar bone surrounding the tooth has 2/3 of the holding power
- Periodontal fibers are not designed to withstand slow continuous torque
- Multirooted teeth are transformed into single rooted teeth
- Preservation of gingiva
- Complete extraction of root confirmed by x-ray
- Closure of alveolus
The technique includes non-surgical and surgical extractions. Non-surgical extractions are those accomplished with simple elevation and traction. These are usually Stage 5 and 6 periodontally involved teeth. Instrumentation is limited to simple extraction forceps, fingers, or needle holders.
Surgical extraction requires:
- Flap creation
- Removal of crestal bone (osteoplasty)
- Isolation of roots (sectioning)
- Elevation of roots
- X-ray
- Alveoloplasty (if needed)
- Closure
The skill required is precision burring with high speed dental equipment. Extractions become quick and minimally painful for the animal.