2015 Pan Pacific Veterinary Conference

Simple extraction does not involve these procedures but may or may not involve section of the crown (leading to separation of individual roots). Surgical extraction may be defined as extraction with associated flap surgery and the removal of some bone, generally buccal, to aid the luxation and removal of the tooth’s roots. Note that I used the word “luxation” and not “elevation” as that involves a different technique; the roots of dog and cat teeth provide very significant anchorage. We have to degrade/tear the periodontal ligament fibres and this is a luxation technique. This influences the hand instruments we choose and this alone can make the job less arduous. There may be significant periodontal disease present leading to bone loss and mobility that assists extraction, but often the tooth periodontium is healthy and these can pose a challenge of a whole different level. We should recognise these early and rather than waste time, extract these surgically. The result is time saved, a higher level of self-satisfaction and better patient outcomes. Of course, integral to these procedures is effective, pre-emptive analgesia.