Misch A Novel Decision-Making Process for Tooth Retention or Extraction

the most popular therapeutic option for professionals and pa-tients for the treatment of total and partial edentulism. When implants are placed in an ideal position, with adequate pros-thetic loading and proper maintenance, they can have success rates>90 % over 15 years of function. Implants may be consid-ered a better therapeutic alternative than performing more ex-tensive conservative procedures in an attempt to save or maintain a compromised tooth. Inadequate indication for tooth extraction has resulted in the sacrifice of many sound savable teeth. This article presents a chart that can assist cli-nicians in making the right decision when they are deciding which route to take. Methods: Articles published in peer-reviewed English jour-nals were selected using several scientific databases and subsequently reviewed. Book sources were also searched. In-dividual tooth- and patient-related features were thoroughly analyzed, particularly when determining if a tooth should be indicated for extraction. Results: A color-based decision-making chart with six dif-ferent levels, including several factors, was developed based upon available scientific literature. The rationale for including these factors is provided, and its interpretation is justified with literature support. Conclusion: The decision-making chart provided may serve as a reference guide for dentists when making the deci-sion to save or extract a compromised tooth. J Periodonto