Exodontics (Extractions)

12 Exodontics (Extractions)





Although the object in veterinary dentistry is to save teeth, extraction often becomes necessary. Exodontics is the branch of dentistry that involves the extraction of teeth. This chapter’s intent is to familiarize the reader with indications, equipment, and techniques for exodontia. It is not a substitute for proper hands-on training given by experts to those legally authorized to do so.




The Technician and Extractions


With regard to extraction, laws vary from state to state. In all states, if extraction by someone other than a veterinarian is permitted, the extraction must be performed under a veterinarian’s supervision. Some state regulations are contradictory. For example, in some states, registered veterinary technicians are permitted to perform extractions. However, the law forbids registered veterinary technicians from performing surgery. Many extractions are surgical (e.g., when teeth are split or flaps performed). This presents a conflict for the technician. Further, there may be insurance issues concerning whether the veterinarian can allow unauthorized individuals to perform procedures for which they are not authorized by law or regulation to do. The safe position, if allowed by state law and the veterinarian, is for the technician to perform only nonsurgical extractions such as removal of extremely mobile teeth.


The American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC), which represents board-certified veterinary dental specialists throughout the world, has evaluated the duties of the veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, and nonlicensed individuals in practice. As a result, the AVDC developed a position statement stipulating that only veterinarians should provide extraction services (Box 12-1).



Box 12-1


American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) Position Statement Regarding Veterinary Dental Healthcare Providers


The American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) developed this position statement as a means to safeguard the veterinary dental patient and to ensure the qualifications of persons performing veterinary dental procedures.










Adopted by the Board of Directors April 1998; revised October 1999 and September 2006. Courtesy American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) at www.AVDC.org.


Oct 9, 2016 | Posted by in GENERAL | Comments Off on Exodontics (Extractions)

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