Root Amputation
Preserve your natural tooth with advanced root amputation treatment designed to eliminate infection while maintaining healthy tooth structure.
Root Amputation to Save Infected Multi-Rooted Teeth
Root amputation is a specialized endodontic procedure used to save a severely damaged multi-rooted tooth by removing only the affected root while preserving the healthy portion of the tooth. This conservative treatment helps maintain your natural bite, supports surrounding bone, and may eliminate the need for tooth extraction.
At Olympia Dental, our experienced dental team carefully evaluates each case using modern digital imaging to determine whether root amputation is the best option for preserving your natural smile and restoring long-term oral health.
What Is Root Amputation?
Root amputation, also called root resection, involves removing one infected or damaged root of a molar while leaving the healthy roots and crown intact. This procedure is commonly recommended when infection, fracture, bone loss, or periodontal disease affects only one root of the tooth.
Benefits of Root Amputation
Save Your Natural Tooth
Preserve healthy tooth structure instead of removing the entire tooth.
Eliminate Infection
Remove the infected root while protecting healthy surrounding tissues.
Maintain Bite Function
Continue chewing comfortably while preserving natural tooth support.
Avoid Tooth Extraction
Root amputation may eliminate the need for implants or bridges.
When Is Root Amputation Recommended?
- Severe infection affecting one root
- Vertical root fracture limited to one root
- Advanced bone loss around a single root
- Localized periodontal disease
- Failed previous root canal affecting one root
- Damage that cannot be repaired with conventional treatment
The Root Amputation Procedure
Following a comprehensive examination and digital X-rays, your dentist carefully removes the damaged root while preserving the remaining healthy roots and crown. The area is thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and restored to ensure proper healing and long-term stability. In many cases, a dental crown is placed afterward to strengthen and protect the remaining tooth structure.
Why Choose Olympia Dental?
Advanced Diagnostics
Digital imaging allows accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Conservative Care
We focus on preserving your natural teeth whenever possible.
Comfortable Treatment
Modern techniques help make your procedure gentle and efficient.
Long-Term Results
Our goal is to restore healthy function and protect your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is root amputation?
Root amputation removes one diseased root from a multi-rooted tooth while preserving the remaining healthy roots and crown.
Is root amputation painful?
The procedure is performed using local anesthesia, making treatment comfortable for most patients.
Will I still need a crown?
In many cases, a dental crown is recommended to strengthen and protect the treated tooth after healing.
How long does a treated tooth last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, a tooth treated with root amputation can function successfully for many years.
Save Your Natural Tooth Today
If you have a severely damaged or infected molar, Olympia Dental can evaluate whether root amputation is the right treatment to preserve your smile.
Book Your Consultation