The battle of the lower molar extraction forceps: cowhorn versus eagle beak

The goal of any dentist when carrying out a tooth extraction is to ensure ease of removal with minimal force in a swift manner that preserves socket integrity, minimizes trauma and improves the patients' trust in the surgical ability of the operator. The importance of prior planning, attention to root morphology, assessment of available coronal tooth structure and bony architecture will help guide the clinician to achieve this goal.¹ We would like to describe one scenario that readers may like to reflect upon – the extraction of the lower molar tooth.

As one of the first permanent teeth to erupt, together with their unique position and morphology, lower first molars are more frequently affected by dental caries than any other mandibular tooth.² This, together with the extensive restorative work that usually follows, renders these teeth structurally fragile and they, therefore, frequently fracture on removal. We would like to discuss a common dilemma faced by clinicians in choosing either a cowhorn or eagle beak forceps for the lower molar extraction. A better understanding of the mechanical principles of exodontia can help the operator select the most appropriate instrument.