625 Menlo Avenue, Suite 4, Menlo Park, CA 94025 
650-285-6999 At Richard S. Durando, DDS, we understand that keeping your natural teeth is important for your overall dental health and confidence. Sometimes, a tooth’s root can become infected or damaged, and traditional root canal therapy may not be sufficient to save the tooth. In such cases, root amputation can be an effective solution. We offer this specialized procedure to help preserve your natural smile and avoid extraction.
Understanding Root Amputation
Root amputation, also known as root resection, involves the surgical removal of a diseased or damaged root from a multi-rooted tooth. This procedure is often performed on molars, which have more than one root. By removing the problematic root while preserving the healthy parts of the tooth, we can help you maintain your natural tooth structure and functionality.
This procedure is usually recommended when:
- One root of a multi-rooted tooth is severely damaged or infected.
- Root canal therapy alone cannot resolve the issue.
- There is a risk of spreading infection to surrounding teeth or tissues.
- Preserving the natural tooth is a priority over extraction.
The Root Amputation Process
When you come for a root amputation, Dr. Richard Durando will ensure you understand each step of the process. The procedure begins with a thorough examination and imaging to assess the condition of the tooth and surrounding structures. We use advanced dental technology to create a precise treatment plan tailored to your needs.
During the root amputation, we will:
- Administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
- Make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth’s roots.
- Remove the damaged or infected root while preserving the healthy portions of the tooth.
- Clean and disinfect the area to prevent further infection.
- Suture the gum tissue and provide aftercare instructions to promote healing.
We will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and ensure that the tooth remains healthy and functional.
Benefits of Root Amputation
Choosing root amputation over extraction offers several benefits:
- Preservation of natural tooth structure: Keeping your natural teeth helps maintain your bite and jaw alignment.
- Avoiding more extensive dental work: Root amputation can prevent the need for dental implants or bridges.
- Less invasive than extraction: The procedure is less traumatic to the surrounding tissues compared to tooth extraction.
For more information on root amputations in Menlo Park, California, or to schedule a consultation with our dentist, contact us at 650-285-6999.
FAQ
What is the recovery time for root amputation?
Most patients recover within a few weeks. We will provide personalized aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth healing process.
Is root amputation painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the surgery. Some discomfort and swelling are normal afterward, but this can be managed with prescribed medications.
Can all teeth be treated with root amputation?
Root amputation is typically performed on molars with multiple roots. We will evaluate your specific situation to determine if you are a candidate for this procedure.
How successful is root amputation?
With proper care and follow-up, root amputation can be highly successful in preserving the tooth and preventing further infection.
