What is hemisection?

Hemisection refers to the surgical separation of a multi-rooted tooth through the furcation area, which is the region where the roots of the tooth divide. This procedure is typically performed on teeth that cannot be saved as a whole due to extensive periodontal disease or damage but where one of its roots may still be viable. By removing the affected root or roots, a hemisection can help in preserving part of the tooth structure, leading to improved outcomes, such as maintaining occlusion and preserving surrounding bone and soft tissue.

In clinical practice, hemisection can be particularly useful in mandible molars where there are separate roots. This procedure not only allows for the retention of the healthier part of the tooth but may also reduce periodontal complications, enabling the patient to maintain oral function with the remaining portion.

The other options presented do not accurately define hemisection. Complete extraction involves removing the entire tooth, while periodontal maintenance refers to ongoing care after treatment. Bone graft procedures are associated with the reconstruction of bone, often following tooth loss or surgical intervention, and are not related to hemisection at all.