Root Amputation

3D MicroEndo

Endodontists located in Upper East Side, Gramercy, and Tribeca, New York, NY

During a root amputation, a skilled endodontic specialist removes one of the roots from a multirooted tooth like a molar. Then, the tooth is disease-free and the remaining roots keep the tooth stable with help from a new crown or filling. At 3D MicroEndo, with locations in the Upper East Side, Gramercy Park, and Tribeca neighborhoods of Manhattan, the team of endodontic specialists performs root amputations on-site. Book your appointment using the online scheduler or call the New York City office nearest you.

Root Amputation Q & A

What is a root amputation?

A root amputation is an advanced endodontic treatment to remove one of the tooth roots from a tooth that has two or three total roots.

Prior to root amputation, you need a root canal procedure. Typically, root amputations are for molars. After root removal, a general dentist applies a custom crown to reinforce your tooth.

Why do you need a root canal before root amputation?

A root amputation is a complex procedure that involves the deepest part of the tooth. It's impossible to perform the necessary root removal without removing the pulp first, which is what a root canal treatment does.

When do I need a root amputation?

There are several different situations in which you might need a root amputation. Your 3D MicroEndo endodontist might recommend this treatment in the following situations.

Bacteria within your tooth root
Injury affecting your tooth root
Tooth decay in a certain concentrated part of your tooth
Severe bone loss around one tooth root, but not the others

Root amputations are usually a last resort to save your natural tooth.

How does a root amputation work?

Your endodontist creates a very small gum incision to give them access to your tooth’s roots. Next, your endodontist partitions the affected tooth root away from the other roots and precisely removes it.

After root removal, your endodontist carefully disinfects the treatment area to destroy any lingering bacteria. Finally, they apply tiny sutures to close your gum incision. After your root amputation, you'll see your general dentist to get a new custom crown.

Is a root amputation better than tooth extraction?

Yes. In almost all cases, it's better to keep your natural tooth if at all possible. If you have a tooth extraction, you’ll need a tooth replacement to maintain normal teeth alignment and good oral health.

Tooth replacements such as dental implants and bridgework are quite complex and time-consuming, in addition to being very costly. In general, saving your tooth through root amputation and a crown is less costly and requires fewer visits to 3D MicroEndo than implants or bridgework would.

Find out whether root amputation can save your tooth by calling the 3D MicroEndo office nearest you or clicking the online scheduler now.

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