Abstract
Impacted canine teeth and displaced tooth roots present significant surgical challenges in small animal dentistry, particularly when located in close proximity to the mandibular canal. Conventional extraction techniques risk iatrogenic trauma to critical neurovascular structures, postoperative complications, and prolonged recovery. Piezoelectric surgery has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative for bone management, offering precision cutting with reduced risk to adjacent soft tissues.
This presentation describes a novel technique for the retrieval of displaced tooth roots within the mandibular canal and for the surgical extraction of impacted canine teeth in dogs using piezoelectric osteotomy. The procedure was developed to improve surgical control, minimize collateral damage, and enhance patient outcomes.
In cases of displaced tooth roots, intraoral radiography and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) were employed to localize the fragment within the mandibular canal. A targeted osteotomy was then performed using a piezoelectric surgical unit, enabling selective bone removal while preserving neurovascular integrity. For impacted canine teeth, piezoelectric osteotomy was applied to create a conservative bony window that allowed atraumatic access to the crown and root.
The precise micrometric cutting action reduced intraoperative hemorrhage, improved visualization, and facilitated controlled luxation and removal.
Clinical results demonstrated that piezoelectric surgery significantly reduced surgical morbidity compared with conventional rotary instruments. Postoperative complications such as mandibular fracture, hemorrhage, or persistent neurological deficits were not observed. Patients exhibited rapid recovery, with minimal postoperative swelling and pain, likely attributable to the reduced mechanical and thermal trauma associated with ultrasonic cutting. This technique represents a refinement of veterinary oral surgical practice, providing a safe and effective method for managing two of the most technically demanding procedures in canine dentistry. Beyond immediate clinical benefits, the use of piezoelectric osteotomy may also reduce the need for aggressive bone removal and thus contribute to preservation of mandibular structural integrity.
The presentation will detail surgical protocols, instrumentation, and case outcomes, supported by clinical imaging and video documentation. Emphasis will be placed on indications, stepwise technique, and management of intraoperative challenges. The potential applications of piezoelectric osteotomy in other advanced oral surgical procedures will also be discussed. In conclusion, piezoelectric surgery offers a valuable adjunct in veterinary dentistry, enabling controlled retrieval of displaced tooth roots and successful extraction of impacted canine teeth with minimal complications. Adoption of this technique may significantly advance the standards of care in small animal oral surgery.