Changes

==Techniques==

==Techniques==

With all extractions the entire tooth should '''always''' be removed. It is necessary to disrupt the '''[[Enamel Organ|periodontal ligament]]''' and '''alveolar margin''' in order to remove the tooth. Care should be taken not to damage the adjacent teeth. There are three commonly used techniques for cheek tooth extraction:

With all extractions the entire tooth should '''always''' be removed. It is necessary to disrupt the '''[[Tooth - Anatomy & Physiology|periodontal ligament]]''' and '''alveolar margin''' in order to remove the tooth. Care should be taken not to damage the adjacent teeth. There are three commonly used techniques for cheek tooth extraction:

===Oral Extraction===

===Oral Extraction===

This technique is the '''least invasive''' (as the alveolus remains intact) and it can be performed under '''sedation'''. If the technique is unsuccessful subsequent surgical extraction may be required. It is ideal for use in elderly horses as the [[Enamel Organ|periodontal ligament]] is often already loose.

This technique is the '''least invasive''' (as the alveolus remains intact) and it can be performed under '''sedation'''. If the technique is unsuccessful subsequent surgical extraction may be required. It is ideal for use in elderly horses as the [[Tooth - Anatomy & Physiology|periodontal ligament]] is often already loose.

First, the gingival margin should be lifted using '''elevators'''. Secondly, '''molar spreaders''' should be placed between the extraction tooth and the surrounding teeth. Finally, '''forceps''' should be placed on the extraction tooth and gently rotated to loosen the surrounding attachments. This final step can take a '''very long time''' - particularly where the periodontal ligament is intact, but it should not be rushed as this could result in fracture of the extracted tooth.  

First, the gingival margin should be lifted using '''elevators'''. Secondly, '''molar spreaders''' should be placed between the extraction tooth and the surrounding teeth. Finally, '''forceps''' should be placed on the extraction tooth and gently rotated to loosen the surrounding attachments. This final step can take a '''very long time''' - particularly where the periodontal ligament is intact, but it should not be rushed as this could result in fracture of the extracted tooth.