Hemisection of teeth — indications, course of treatment and effects

Indications for hemisection of the tooth

The procedure of hemisection is used in selected cases when it is possible to preserve a healthy part of the tooth. Among the most common indications are:

• Advanced caries When only one half of the tooth is affected.
• Advanced periodontal disease Periodontitis is limited to one half of the tooth.
• Rupture of the tooth root Damage to one root that needs to be removed.
• Failure of root canal treatment An infection that is limited to one part of the tooth.
• Root resorption — significant destruction of one half of the root while preserving the other.

Contraindications to hemisection

The procedure is not indicated when:

• Periodontal disease covers the entire tooth and both roots are morbidly altered.
• Both roots of the tooth are severely infected or destroyed.
• Lack of sufficient healthy tooth structure for restoration.
• The patient has poor oral hygiene, which hinders healing and increases the risk of infection.
• The position of the tooth or root makes it difficult to carry out the procedure safely (e.g. proximity to the maxillary sinus).

The decision on hemisection is made by an experienced dentist after a thorough diagnosis.

The course of the procedure of hemisection of the tooth

1. Local anesthesia — provides comfort and no pain during the procedure.
2. Access to the roots of the tooth — making a hole in the crown or a small surgical operation.
3. Separation of roots — precise separation of the roots of the tooth using specialized tools.
4. Removal of the affected part of the tooth — removal of the infected or damaged root along with the adjacent part of the crown.
5. Cleaning and preparation of the rest of the tooth — if necessary, root canal treatment.
6. Tooth restoration — most often with the help of a prosthetic crown, which restores the aesthetics and function of the tooth.

After the procedure, the patient may be given antibiotics and painkillers. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the healing process.

Does hemisection hurt?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so during the procedure the patient does not feel pain, only he can feel slight discomfort or pressure. After the anesthesia subsides, pain and swelling are possible, which can be controlled with painkillers and cooling.

In the event of severe, persistent pain, fever or other disturbing symptoms, you should immediately contact your dentist.

What to avoid after the hemisection procedure?

To ensure proper healing, you must:

• Avoid hard, crunchy and spicy foods for several days.
• Limit intense physical activity, which can aggravate bleeding.
• Do not smoke, as it delays healing and increases the risk of infection.
• Avoid alcohol consumption for several days.
• Be careful when brushing your teeth and avoid brushing and flossing at the treatment site for several days.
• In case of severe pain, bleeding or other disturbing symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

What does hemisection of teeth give?

Hemisection allows you to:

• Preserving as much of the natural structure of the tooth as possible.
• Removal of only the diseased, infected part, which prevents the spread of infection.
• Reducing the need for prostheses, implants or bridges, which are more expensive and more invasive.
• Restoration of the aesthetics and function of the tooth due to the restoration of the prosthetic crown.

Should I be afraid of tooth hemisection?

It is natural to feel anxious before a dental procedure. However, the choice of an experienced office and specialist guarantees a safe and professional conduct of hemisection.

It is worth discussing your concerns with the dentist, who will explain the course of the procedure, the available methods of anesthesia and the possibilities of pain management, which will allow the patient to feel more confident and calm.