All About the Root Elevator in Dentistry
Root Elevator in Dentistry: Types, Uses & Technique Explained
A root elevator is an essential dental tool used to raise and free roots or tooth fragments from their sockets during tooth extraction procedures. To remove the tooth without any complexity, it uses the lever theory, which reduces damage to bone and tissue around the teeth. A root elevator is a tool that is designed for different purposes in line with the various designs of the job and is typically used in those parts where the roots are broken or have suffered injury. They do not allow the use of too much force, which could result in damage to the surroundings. To remove dentists with accuracy, efficiency and patient comfort, they become efficient in proper use of the root elevators.
Types of Root Elevators
Dental root elevators come in different types of forms these days. Some elevators are designed to work with special types of teeth, while others are applied universally. The observation of the most widely used dental root elevators is provided here.
- Universal: Any type of teeth can be treated with elevators. They are perfect for molars because they often have a broad tip.
- Tooth specific: These elevators are designed to work on a certain type of teeth. Depending on the tooth they are intended for, their tips may be wider or thinner.
- Bone specific: These elevators can be applied to the teeth that contain the surrounding bones. Due to its thin tip, the possibility of maintaining damage to the surrounding bone structure is less likely.
Different Uses of Root Elevators
During other operations associated with dental extracts and removal of dental roots, dentists and oral surgeons use root elevators, which are important surgical tools. Before being removed, their main function is to release teeth from the surrounding bone and periodontal ligament. They are used only for more than elevation, though. So here are the main uses mentioned below:
Root Fragments Removal
When there is a tooth fracture during extraction, small pieces that are deeply embedded in socket or damaged root tips are carefully removed using the elevators.
- Root Separation: It is often necessary to separate multirooted teeth before removing them.
- Decayed Teeth Elevation: The elevator provides a different way to elevate the root part for safe removal when the crowns are severely deteriorated and the forceps cannot grasp them firmly.
- Helping with Sectioning Processes: When teeth are sectioned (cut into pieces) during surgery, elevators assist in the safe and effective lifting and removal of each section.
Proper Technique for Using Root Elevators
It takes both expertise and knowledge to operate elevators safely and efficiently. Incorrect use can cause issues such as fractured roots, injury to adjacent teeth, or issues to soft tissue.
Step-by-Step Technique:
- Proper Positioning: It is important to position the patient’s head so that access and visibility are optimal. Suction and adequate lighting should be ensured.
- Elevator Insertion : Place the blade between the alveolar socket wall and the tooth or root. To apply the most force, make sure the blade’s concave side is facing the root.
- Controlled Pressure: Put light but firm pressure on the apical and rotational surfaces. In order to prevent breaking the tooth or root, the pressure should be applied gradually.
- Use of Bone as a Fulcrum: It is best to apply leverage against the bone rather than the neighboring teeth. To avoid using too much effort, always use your fingers to support the alveolar ridge.
- Luxation: It should begin to shift the tooth or root. Stop and adjust your position if you sense resistance. If there is resistance, do not push the elevator farther; this could harm it.
Conclusion
Root elevators are essential tools in modern dentistry, especially for complex tooth extracts. They significantly improve the efficiency and control of a dentist in removing broken pieces and loosening the roots by helping delicate treatments. They reduce the amount of force required and increase the comfort and safety of the patient during extracts and close the tissues.
Knowing three types of universal, tooth-specific and bone-specific you can adjust your strategy for each situation. Successful results are ensured by the mastery of the method, including appropriate placements and regulated applications. To achieve accuracy, to reduce trauma and increase the patient’s satisfaction, each dental professional must be efficient with the root elevators.
FAQs
Q1. What is the purpose of a root elevator in dentistry?
A tooth elevator is a tool used to remove a tooth or damaged root from its socket during basic oral surgery procedures. There are many different kinds of elevators, with both left and right sides.
Q2. What are the different types of elevators?
Luxators: The most widely used elevator is this one. It is used to move roots out of the sockets and to luxate teeth before extraction. The luxator blade has a rounded working end and an interior concave surface that presses on the tooth.
Q3. Can issues arise from using a root elevator improperly?
Yes, poor technique can result in problems including broken roots, injury to teeth, or harm to the soft tissues and alveolar bone. Therefore while using, it is essential to use bone rather than nearby teeth as a fulcrum, maintain perfect placement, and provide regulated pressure.
Q4. When is it appropriate to use a root elevator rather than extraction forceps?
A root elevator is utilized when the tooth is so damaged, decaying, or impacted that forceps cannot hold it in place. When it comes to extracting root tips or fragments without causing harm to the surrounding tissues, elevators are very helpful in releasing the tooth from its socket.
Q5. What tooth is the most difficult to extract?
The most important teeth are wisdom teeth, which are followed by canine teeth and upper and lower molars. The difficulty of extraction is affected by variables such as bone density, location, and root anatomy. Retained baby teeth can also be problematic for kids.