Which instrument is designed for mandibular posterior multi-rooted teeth?

• A. Lower Anterior Forceps
• B. Lower Root Forceps
• C. Lower Molar Forceps
• D. Lower Cowhorn Forceps

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that mandibular posterior teeth, like molars, often have two or more roots, so the instrument used must grip around multiple roots to deliver a controlled, intact extraction. Lower cowhorn forceps are specifically designed for this scenario: their two curved horns wrap around the buccal and lingual aspects of the molar roots, giving a secure grip on the tooth as a unit. This design allows the clinician to apply axial traction and precise luxation to loosen and remove a multi-rooted mandibular molar without fracturing roots or surrounding bone. Other forceps are tailored for single-rooted anterior teeth or for gripping only one part of the tooth, making them less effective for multi-rooted posterior teeth.