What is a hemisection?

A hemisection is a surgical procedure specifically involving a multirooted tooth, where a single root along with its associated crown is removed by cutting the tooth lengthwise. This process allows for the preservation of the remaining part of the tooth while addressing issues related to disease or decay in just one of the roots. The significance of this procedure lies in its ability to maintain tooth structure that might otherwise be lost, enabling the continued function of the tooth, albeit with the reduced structure.

Understanding hemisection is essential in dental practice, particularly when dealing with complex cases of root canal issues or periodontal disease affecting only one root. By selectively removing the compromised section, the overall health and integrity of the remaining part of the tooth can often be preserved, which is an important consideration in restorative dentistry.