Reasons the Root of Your Tooth May Need to Be Split
Posted on 8/15/2025 by Duggan Endodontics Office
Have you ever heard the term "root canal" and wondered what it means? A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of a tooth's root. The pulp is a soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels, and other cells.
While root canals are often effective in saving teeth, sometimes the anatomy of a tooth can make it difficult to clean and disinfect all of the canals. In these cases, your endodontist may recommend a procedure called a root splitting.
Why Would a Root Need to be Split?
There are a few reasons why your endodontist might recommend splitting the root of your tooth. These include:
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Curved or narrow canals: Some teeth have canals that are curved or very narrow. This can make it difficult for endodontic instruments to reach and clean all areas of the canals.
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Calcification: Over time, the pulp inside a tooth can become calcified. This can make the canals difficult to clean and disinfect.
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Multiple canals: Some teeth have more than one canal. This can make it difficult to locate and treat all of the canals.
How is a Root Split Performed?
A root split is a surgical procedure that is performed by an endodontist. The procedure involves making a small incision in the gum tissue and then carefully splitting the tooth in half. Once the tooth is split, the endodontist can clean and disinfect all of the canals. The tooth is then sealed with a filling material and a crown is placed to protect it.
Benefits of Root Splitting
Root splitting is a highly successful procedure that can save teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted. The benefits of root splitting include:
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Preservation of the natural tooth: Root splitting can help to save your natural tooth, which is always the best option.
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Improved oral health: Saving your natural tooth can help to improve your overall oral health.
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Reduced risk of future problems: By removing the infected or damaged pulp, root splitting can help to prevent future problems with the tooth.
Risks of Root Splitting
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with root splitting. These risks include:
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Infection: There is a small risk of infection following the procedure.
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Fracture: There is a small risk that the tooth could fracture during the procedure.
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Sensitivity: The tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold after the procedure.
Conclusion
If you have been told that you need a root splitting procedure, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your endodontist. Root splitting is a safe and effective procedure that can save your natural tooth and improve your oral health.
Have you ever heard the term "root canal" and wondered what it means? A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of a tooth's root. The pulp is a soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels, and other cells.