Tooth Radisection: A Viable Alternative

Tooth Radisection is a specialized dental surgical procedure. It involves resection of one or more  roots of a multi-rooted tooth at the level of furcation; leaving the crown and remaining roots in function. Dentists employ this procedure as a conservative alternative to tooth extraction, aiming to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. It plays a significant role in maintaining occlusion, aesthetics, and oral function, especially in patients who wish to avoid removable dentures or dental implants. Dentists also call it as “Root Resection or Root Amputation”.

Indications

Dentists perform Tooth Radisection in the following clinical situations:

• When one root of a molar is affected by advanced periodontal disease or resorption, while the rest of the tooth is healthy.
• In cases where conventional root canal retreatment is unsuccessful or not feasible for a specific root.
• If one root has vertical fracture, removing only that root can preserve the remaining tooth structure.
• Sometimes, a particular root interferes with a planned prosthetic or restorative treatment.

Procedure

The selected root is carefully resectd and removed without damaging the surrounding bone or adjacent roots. It is dentist’s hoie to reat the remaining roots with RCT either before or during the surgical procedure. He then sutures the site and allowit to heal. I is often followed by placement of a permanent crown or bridge to restore function and aesthetics.

Advantages

Helps retain natural teeth and avoid extractions.

Maintains chewing efficiency and prevents shifting of adjacent teeth.

Avoids full tooth removal and major surgery.

Prognosis

Studies show that when tooth Radisection under ideal conditions gives the long-term success rate, comparable to that of dental implants in some cases. Success largely depends on careful case selection, proper technique, and rigorous postoperative maintenance. While not suitable for all cases, it remains a critical part of the dentist’s armamentarium in managing complex endodontic, periodontal, and restorative challenges. Through proper diagnosis, meticulous surgical execution, and comprehensive follow-up care, tooth Radisection can offer patients a successful and lasting solution.