Regarding dental procedures, precision and accuracy are of utmost importance.
Dental elevators are essential instruments that help dentists perform various dental procedures, specifically tooth extractions.
Among the different types of tooth elevators available, the Freer elevator stands out as a versatile tool in dental practice.
Here, we will learn what a Freer dental elevator is, its uses, benefits, and types. Besides that, we’ll overview some common tooth elevators used in dentistry.
What is a Freer Elevator?
A Freer dental elevator is a handheld instrument commonly used in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Its name comes from its inventor, Eugene K. Freer. He was a renowned American otolaryngologist.
The elevator features a slender, curved shaft with sharp, round tips. Its ergonomic design handle provides a comfortable grip, ensuring improved control during the procedure.
Uses of a Freer Tooth Elevator
In dentistry, there’re various uses of this special elevator dental instrument.
- Tooth Extraction
One of Freer dental elevator's primary uses is tooth extraction. It is particularly useful in cases where the tooth is firmly anchored in the socket.
Moreover, it helps luxate the tooth before extraction.
The sharp tip of the elevator helps gently loosen the tooth from the periodontal ligament, making it easier to remove with the extraction forceps.
- Sinus Lift Procedures
Freer dental elevators are also useful in sinus lift procedures.
A sinus lift is a dental surgery in which dental professionals add bone to the upper jaw of the premolars and molars.
Primarily, this procedure aims to create a solid foundation for dental implants.
The slender and curved design of the Freer elevator allows dental surgeons to access the sinus membrane precisely, facilitating the lifting of the membrane to create space for bone grafting.
- Alveolar Ridge Modification
Another application of the Freer dental elevator is alveolar ridge modification.
This procedure involves reshaping the alveolar, bony ridge supporting the teeth.
The elevator detaches and lifts the periosteum, a thin layer of connective tissue covering the bone, making it convenient to access the alveolar ridge so that the dentist can reshape or contour it as needed.
Benefits of Using a Freer Elevator
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Precision and Control
The slender and curved design of the Freer tooth elevator provides excellent control and maneuverability.
This allows dentists to target specific areas and apply the necessary force during dental procedures.
The sharp tip of the elevator also aids in accurate placement and manipulation.
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Minimally Invasive
Freer dental elevators are designed to be minimally invasive. Their slim design aids in accessing tight spaces and reduces the risk of damaging surrounding tissues.
So these tooth elevators are ideal for delicate procedures where precision is the priority.
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Versatility
The versatility of the Freer dental elevator is one of its major advantages. It can be useful in many dental procedures, including:
- Tooth extractions
- Sinus lifts
- Alveolar ridge modifications
As a result, this dental instrument eliminates the need for multiple specialized tools, simplifying the dental procedure and reducing costs.
Available Variations of Freer Elevator
Here are three major types of freer dental elevators:
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Straight Design Freer Elevator
This type of freer tooth elevator features a straight, slender handle with a flat, rounded tip.
Typically, it is helpful in elevating teeth in a straight direction.
Dentists place the straight tip of the instrument between the tooth and the surrounding bone and apply gentle rotational movements to loosen the tooth from its socket.
Primarily, straight freer tooth elevators are useful for single-rooted teeth. Nevertheless, these can help elevate multi-rooted teeth in specific cases.
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Curved Freer Dental Elevator
The curved pattern of this elevator features angled blades with round tips and a round handle.
The curvature of the instrument allows for easier access to teeth located in the back of the mouth, especially the molars.
The rounded tip is designed to fit against the curved surface of the tooth, providing better leverage for elevation.
Dentists may use different curved freer dental elevator sizes to accommodate different tooth sizes and positions.
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Freer Periosteal Elevator
While not strictly a dental elevator, the freer periosteal elevator is used in dental extractions.
It has a thin, flat handle with a slightly curved, paddle-like tip.
Unlike the straight and curved variations, the periosteal elevator primarily helps separate and lift
- The gum tissue (gingiva)
- The periosteum (connective tissue covering the bone)
With this special elevator, by gently separating the soft tissues, the dentist gains better access to the tooth's socket and can perform the extraction more effectively.
It's important to select the appropriate dental elevator according to the tooth type, location, and nature.
Some Other Essential Dental Elevators Used in Dentistry
Apart from the freer elevator, there’re several other dental elevator instruments helpful in various procedures.
Each type is designed to address specific needs and requirements.
Primarily, these are essential to loosen teeth from the periodontal ligament and aid in extraction.
Let’s overview some common dentistry elevators!
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Apexo Elevator
The Apexo tooth elevator is a specially designed dental instrument helpful for apical surgery, also known as apicoectomy. Dental professionals perform this procedure in order to remove the tip of the tooth root and surrounding infected tissues.
The Apexo elevator features a curved, thin, and sharp blade specifically designed to reach the apical area.
Thus, it facilitates the dissection and removal of the infected tissues.
The ergonomic design handle of this elevator allows for better control and maneuverability during the surgical process.
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Apical Elevator
Like the Apexo elevator, the Apical elevator is also used in apical surgery. However, it is particularly effective in cases where the root tip needs to be detached and lifted from the socket.
The Apical elevator features a thin, flat blade with a curved or angled tip, allowing for precise access to the apical area.
Collectively, this elevator aids in the elevation and luxation of the root tip, facilitating its removal while minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissues.
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Crane Pick Elevator
The Crane pick elevator, also known as the Crane pick or just pick, is a versatile dental instrument commonly used in extraction procedures.
It features a long, slender, and pointed blade with a hook-like end.
The pick is designed to engage and grasp the tooth securely and remove the root fragments broken away during exodontia.
The elongated handle of the instrument provides the dentist with better control and grip, enabling them to apply adequate force to loosen the tooth from the periodontal ligament.
The Crane pick elevator is particularly useful when dealing with teeth that are difficult to access or have a curved root structure.
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Cryer Elevator
The Cryer elevator is a widely used dental instrument known for its versatility in tooth extraction procedures.
It features a curved, slightly tapered blade with a rounded tip. The Cryer elevator is specifically designed to engage the tooth and apply controlled force to luxate it from the socket.
Its curved shape allows for easier access to posterior teeth and facilitates the disengagement of the tooth from the periodontal ligament.
The Cryer elevator is available in various sizes to accommodate different tooth sizes and locations.
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Luxating Elevators
Luxating elevators are a category of dental elevators with a special design to luxate or loosen teeth from their sockets. They make extractions easier, mainly when dealing with compromised or impacted teeth.
These tooth elevators are available in different shapes and sizes, including straight, curved, or angled blades.
The blades of luxating elevators are sharp and thin. By applying controlled force and rotational movements, they aid in detaching the tooth from the periodontal ligament without damaging the surrounding tissues.
In this way, luxating elevators allow dental surgeons for precise insertion and manipulation between the tooth and the surrounding bone.
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Seldin Elevator
The Seldin elevator, named after its inventor Dr. Richard J. Seldin, is a unique dental tool used in various oral and maxillofacial procedures.
It features a straight, thin blade with a rounded tip and a sturdy handle for better control.
The Seldin elevator is commonly used for
- Ridge expansion
- Bone contouring
- Removal of bone fragments during dental extractions
Its slim design helps access tight spaces, making it a valuable tool for intricate procedures.
Buy High-Quality Dental Elevators
Tooth elevators are the must-have instruments for the most common dental procedure, i.e., extraction. Therefore, these are the needs of every dental practitioner.
It’s the responsibility of the dentist to ensure the availability of premium-quality tooth elevators and other dental surgical instruments.
Whether you want to buy a high-end freer elevator or any dentistry tools made of German stainless steel, we at GerDentUSA Inc., can provide you with the best.
We have been in the business of manufacturing and supplying dental surgical instruments for the past 30 years. We know the needs of dental professionals and work accordingly.
Explore our catalog and choose from a variety of dental sets, packs, and kits. Place your order now!
FAQs
Why buy from GerDentUSA?
We manufacture our dental instruments following strict quality standards. Moreover, our instruments are made of German stainless steel, titanium, and sometimes with tungsten carbide inserts. Besides, we have an excellent shipment policy.
Do we have advanced dental elevators?
Yes, the anglevator and luxating elevators are among our innovative dental elevators designed to ease the job of dental professionals.
Make sure not to miss the chance to delve into our in-depth guide about Yankauer Suction in Dentistry Procedures