The purpose of a dental elevator is to break the fibers of the periodontal ligament, and if you know how to use it properly, it is a very powerful tool which can do a lot more than you think! In today’s episode, Dr. Jake Stucki, my brother, is back on the podcast. Our discussion covers how an elevator works, which elevators will likely be most effective in which circumstances, and the times when we wouldn't recommend using an elevator. A lot of my time is spent doing elevations, and as Jake advances on his journey as an oral surgeon he is realizing more and more the value that lies in these procedures. Although there are numerous elevator instruments, some of which we talk about today, we also feel that there’s something missing, which is why we are currently working on the “Stucki Elevator!” 

Key Points From This Episode:

• Some of our favorite Everyday Oral Surgery episodes. 
• A story about car trouble which relates to the struggles we can face when taking out teeth.
• The purpose of a dental elevator, and an explanation of how it works. 
• How the process of elevating can differ between patients. 
• Some of the most difficult teeth, and how to deal with them. 
• When a back action isn’t the way to go.
• Comparing the Cogswell B and the Crane as elevation tools. 
• Examples of times when you shouldn’t elevate. 
• How to sustain pressure when doing a dental elevation. 
• Why some people don’t think it’s a good idea to elevate against another tooth.
• How to ensure you have control of the dental elevator.
• Power that comes with knowing how to use an elevator properly. 
• Coming soon: The Stucki Elevator.
• Jake’s book recommendation for today!

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Jake Stucki —

Lost Connections by Johann Hari — https://thelostconnections.com/ 

The Second Mountain by David Brooks — https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/217649/the-second-mountain-by-david-brooks/ 

Dr. Grant Stucki Email — [email protected]

Dr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059