Do Dentists Keep Teeth They Extract?
The practice of retaining extracted teeth among dentists can vary based on several factors, including local regulations, the reason for extraction, the dentist's personal or practice policies, and the specific circumstances of the extraction. This article will explore common reasons why dentists might retain extracted teeth and the importance of proper handling and storage of these teeth.
Reasons for Retaining Extracted Teeth
Educational Purposes
Extracted teeth can serve as valuable educational tools for dental students and professionals. They can be used to teach about the anatomy and pathology of teeth, providing hands-on learning experiences that go beyond theoretical teachings. Additionally, these teeth can be used for practical procedures such as mock extractions or root canal treatments, allowing students to gain real-world experience.
Research
Extracted teeth may also be used for research purposes. They can provide valuable data for studies related to dental health, disease, and the development of new materials. By studying these teeth, researchers can gain insights into common dental issues and develop better solutions to improve oral health.
Patient Request
Some patients, particularly those who have a sentimental attachment to their teeth, might request to retain them. The teeth can be kept for personal reasons such as sentimental value or for use in custom dental pieces. In some cases, dentists may honor these requests if they are made in a medically and legally sound manner.
Legal Reasons
In certain situations, particularly in forensic cases, teeth might be retained for legal documentation or identification purposes. This is especially important for forensic dentistry, where the unique characteristics of a tooth can be used to identify a person or to provide evidence in a legal case.
Proper Handling and Storage
Despite the potential benefits of retaining extracted teeth, proper handling and storage are crucial to ensure the safety and hygiene of these teeth. Dentists must follow health regulations to prevent the spread of infectious materials. Pulled teeth may contain tiny amounts of blood, saliva, or tissue residue, making them potentially infectious. As such, they must be disposed of in specially marked medical waste containers.
In rare instances, some extracted teeth may be saved for specific educational purposes. For example, teeth that are free from fillings or other dental work can be forwarded to teaching hospitals for students to practice on. Additionally, teeth with unusual anatomical features, such as a tooth with six roots, may be saved to share with others or to demonstrate unique dental conditions to patients.
From a personal experience, I have saved an eight-unit bridge supported by four abutment teeth. This bridge was extracted without sectioning, providing a valuable opportunity to demonstrate the result of advanced periodontitis to patients. Such personal experience can be invaluable in educating patients about potential dental issues and the importance of proper dental hygiene.
Conclusion
Dentists have the discretion to retain extracted teeth for various reasons, including educational purposes, research, patient requests, and legal requirements. However, ensuring proper handling and storage is essential to maintain ethical and legal standards. Patients who want clarification on what happens to their extracted teeth should feel free to ask their dentists for more information.