considered. As mentioned earlier, less invasive methods, such
as using a clamp with prongs inclined apically or using an S-G
clamp, should be attempted first (see Fig. 5-24). If neither of
these techniques effectively isolates the tooth, the clinician
may consider clamping of the attached gingiva and alveolar
process. In this situation it is imperative that profound soft
tissue anesthesia exists before clamp placement. Although the
procedure may cause some minor posttreatment discomfort,
the periodontal tissues recover quickly with minimal posttreatment
care.