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EXTRACTION OF TEETH. 363

bicuspids, a slight anterior curve would be desirable,
since it would admit the instrument to a better position
on the tooth. These forceps properly adjusted on the
tooth, according to the directions already given, the
attachment is broken up by an inward' and outward

movement, carried just to the extent necessary to
accomplish the object; and then, traction is applied
to remove the tooth from the socket. This applica-
tion of the force is specially adapted to the first
bicuspids. Rotary motion should be very seldom
applied to these teeth, because their points generally
terminate in a bifurcation, and it is impracticable
thus to detach them without breaking off, at least,

one of the roots ; and, where they do not bifurcate,
they are so much compressed as generally to forbid
such a force. Occasionally, however, there is but
one root, and this is nearly cylindrical, as will be
indicated by the cylindrical form of the crown and
neck of the tooth ; and, in such cases, the rotary may
be combined with the inward and outward motion.
The root of the second bicuspid commonly has no
bifurcation, is usually somewhat compressed; and, in
general, the rotary motion may be combined with

the inward and outward in its extraction. There is
occasionally, however, some curvature to the roots of
these teeth ; but very seldom is it sufficient to cause
any difficulty in their removal. The skillful and