Comparative Evaluation of Physics Forceps versus Conventional Forceps in Adult Dental Extractions: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background:
Tooth extraction in adult patients demands precision to minimize trauma, postoperative discomfort, and anxiety. Physics Forceps, based on first-class lever mechanics, are engineered to provide a controlled, atraumatic extraction technique, potentially reducing the need for excessive force and instrument manipulation. In contrast, conventional forceps remain the standard extraction approach widely used in clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of Physics Forceps versus traditional forceps in adult dental extractions by assessing operative time, anxiety levels, and postoperative pain outcomes.

Methodology:
A total of 104 adult patients aged between 18 and 50 years were recruited for a randomized controlled trial after meeting the predefined inclusion criteria. The participants were randomly and equally allocated into two groups: Group I underwent extractions using Physics Forceps, while Group II underwent extractions using conventional forceps. The primary outcome measure was the operative time, recorded in seconds using a stopwatch. Secondary outcome measures included assessment of preoperative and postoperative anxiety using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) and evaluation of postoperative pain on Day 1 and Day 3 using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 17.0, with statistical significance set at a p-value of less than 0.05.

Results:
Group I (physical forceps) exhibited significantly longer total operative times (76.6 ± 9.80 seconds) compared to Group II (conventional forcepts) (22.22 ± 4.56 seconds), primarily due to gingival retraction in Physics Forceps extractions. Postoperative anxiety significantly decreased in Group II (P = 0.001), while Group I showed no significant change (P = 0.28). Postoperative pain scores on Days 1 and 3 were comparable between the two groups. No statistically significant difference was observed in pain levels between Physics Forceps and conventional forceps (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:
Physics Forceps provide an atraumatic extraction method with better tissue preservation but have limitations in adults, including longer operative time and difficulty accessing second and third molars or engaging severely damaged teeth. Conventional forceps are quicker with less initial pain but may cause more tissue trauma. Technique selection should be guided by clinical condition and procedural feasibility.