Root Amputation

Root amputation is a specialized dental procedure, whereby one root is removed from a multi-root tooth. The tooth is then stabilized and rendered fully functional with a crown or filling. The multi-root teeth best suited to the root amputation procedure are the molars at the back of the mouth. These large flat teeth have either two or three roots depending on whether they are situated on the upper or lower jaw.

The general purpose of root amputation is to save an injured or diseased tooth from extraction. Most dentists agree that there is no better alternative than retaining a healthy natural tooth, and the root amputation procedure makes this possible. Dental implants, extensive bridgework and custom-made tooth replacements can be expensive and time-consuming. Generally, root amputation and the necessary crown work are less expensive and can be completed in 1-3 short visits.

When is root amputation necessary?

It is important to note that root amputation can only be performed on an otherwise healthy tooth. Even in the case of a “key” tooth, extraction will be performed if the tooth is diseased, badly fractured, or otherwise injured. Suitable teeth for root amputation have a healthy tooth surface, strong bone support, and healthy underlying gums.

Several problems may lead to root amputation including:

• Broken, fractured, or injured teeth and roots.
• Embedded bacteria within the structure of the root.
• Severe bone loss in a concentrated area due to periodontitis.
• Tooth decay in a concentrated area of the tooth.

What does root amputation involve?

Before root amputation, it is necessary to perform root canal treatment. The amputation itself involves cutting deep into the tooth where blood vessels and nerves are located. For this reason, the pulp of the tooth including these vessels and nerves needs to be removed before resectioning the roots. The root canal and amputation treatments will be performed under local anesthetic.

During the root amputation procedure, a small incision will be created in the gum to fully expose the roots of the affected tooth. The root will be sectioned off from the rest of the tooth and then removed. To kill any remaining bacteria, the whole area will be cleansed with saline solution, and then sutures (stitches) will be applied to seal the incision.

Finally, a temporary crown or filling will be placed to secure the tooth. Depending on the specific situation, painkillers, antibiotics, and a medicated anti-microbial mouthwash may be prescribed. In 7-10 days, the stitches will be removed and the gum will have healed. Arrangements can now be made to place the permanent crown or filling.

If you have any questions or concerns about root amputation, please ask your dentist now at Mina Family Dentistry, One of the best Thornhill Dental practices!

the need for root amputation

Root amputation is a specialized endodontic procedure that is necessary when the roots of a multi-rooted tooth are compromised due to decay periodontal disease or a fracture. In such cases, the affected root poses a risk to the overall health of the tooth, leading to infection or the need for an extraction. At mina family dentistry in Thornhill we evaluate the condition of the tooth and the nearby structures before recommending this procedure, ensuring that it is the most appropriate treatment.

dental issues leading to root amputation

One common issue that leads to root amputation is advanced periodontal disease, which causes significant bone loss around the roots of teeth. At mina family dentistry in Thornhill, the dental team diagnoses the extent of the periodontal damage and determines when root amputation is necessary and the best course of action.

The procedure of root amputation

The root amputation process at mina family dentistry in Thornhill is a precise procedure aimed at preserving the teeth while fixing severe issues that might affect the roots. The procedure begins with the diagnostic phase, where the team at mina family dentistry in Thornhill conducts certain evaluations, including various imaging techniques like CBCT scans to get a better detailed view of the structures in your tooth. On the day of the procedure, anesthesia is used to ensure the patient’s comfort, followed by exposing the root using a small incision made in the gum. The dentist then isolates the root and amputates the root without damaging the surrounding roots.

Once the root is amputated the area is cleaned to remove any chances of infection or anything that could compromise the healing process.

description of the root amputation process

The process begins with the dentist making a small incision in the gum tissue to access the affected tooth. The dentist carefully lifts the gum flap to expose the tooth’s root. This incision is placed in a way that minimizes the damage to the surrounding tissue and provides optimal visibility of the root. In some cases, a small amount of bone may need to be removed to access the root area.

Once the root is accessible the dentist isolates the root, this means the dentist uses surgical instruments to separate the root from the rest of the tooth structure, which is done using elevators and handpieces. In cases where the root is difficult to remove, it may be broken down into different pieces to be easily extracted, each piece is extracted carefully to avoid damaging the remaining roots or the surrounding area.

After the root is removed, the root canal and nearby area are cleaned and removed. The dentist uses disinfectants to flush any debris bacteria or infections. This cleaning is crucial as it prevents the spread of the infection and prepares the surgical site for healing.

benefits of root amputation

One of the primary advantages of root amputation over extraction is the preservation of the tooth. By removing the compromised root without damaging the healthy roots. The process maintains the tooth structure and function. This is beneficial for patients who are avoiding extensive treatments such as implants or bridges.

FAQ

What is root amputation?

Root amputation is a special procedure where one root of a multi-rooted tooth is removed without damaging the tooth’s structure.

When is root amputation necessary?

Root amputation is necessary when one of the roots of a multi-rooted tooth is compromised due to various factors such as decay, periodontal disease, or fracture.

What are the benefits of root amputation?

The primary benefit of root amputation is the preservation of the natural tooth. Removing the damaged root, the process allows the patient to keep the current tooth structure without resorting to other treatments such as dental implants or bridges.

What does the root amputation procedure involve?

The procedure begins with root canal treatment to remove the pulp, blood vessels, and nerves from the tooth. Then using anesthesia and sedation methods the patient’s comfort is ensured. A small incision is made in the gum to expose the roots and the compromised root is removed. The area is cleaned to prevent infection and afterwards, sutures are applied.

Is root amputation painful?

The root amputation procedure is performed under anesthesia, therefore, no pain is felt during the procedure. Some discomfort may happen afterward, but this can be managed with OTC painkillers. Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics and special mouthwash if needed.