Hemisection is a type of dental or endodontic surgery in which half of an injured or infected molar is removed. This type of treatment is only used for molars, due to their larger size and dual-root structure that provides added strength and stability. A hemisection may be recommended in certain cases to allow the healthy portion of the affected tooth to be preserved, rather than extracting the full molar.

When might a hemisection be recommended?

Our dentist may recommend a hemisection for you if you experience any of these:

• Vertical fracture, due to trauma or decay
• Vertical bone loss near the molar
• Damage to pulp chamber
• Infection of tooth that has had root canal treatment
• Gum disease affecting the area between the molar’s two roots

How is a hemisection performed?

Our Orland Park dentist will gently expose the structure beneath your molar to confirm that one root is healthy enough to be preserved. The infected or injured root is removed and the gap is cleansed and filled. A crown will be fabricated and placed to strengthen the tooth after treatment.

Hemisection provides an effective option to save a molar that may otherwise require full extraction. If you have a molar that may be injured or infected, contact our Orland Park dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation.

Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery
Phone: (708) 301-5000
Url: https://chicagodentalimplants.com/
10713 W 159th Street
Orland Park, IL 60467

Alveolar osteitis, more commonly known as dry socket, is a temporary complication that can occur following a tooth extraction. Fortunately, it is rare, preventable, and short-lived. Here are some tips to help avoid dry socket after oral surgery and ensure a quick and comfortable recovery.

What is Dry Socket?

When your tooth is extracted, a blood clot forms in the space left behind. This clot helps to block the underlying bone, gum tissue, and nerves from bacterial infection or food debris while the extraction site heals. In rare cases, the clot can be dislodged or not form correctly, which can leave the site exposed. This is dry socket. 

The most common sign of dry socket is a throbbing, deep-set discomfort from within the extraction area. A foul smell may emanate, causing bad breath as well as an unappealing taste in your mouth. If this occurs, contact our Orland Park dental office right away.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Developing dry socket is rare, but certain factors can put you at increased risk. Tobacco use, oral contraceptives, poor oral hygiene, or gum infection around the extraction site can increase your chances. To prevent dry socket, avoid using straws, brushing the extraction area, or rinsing your mouth vigorously during healing. Follow your post-treatment instructions and contact our office if you have questions.

Treatment and Recovery

If you do develop dry socket, we will provide quick, effective treatment. Our Orland Park dentist will flush the area to remove any debris, and pack the extraction site with gauze or other dressing. Medication may be prescribed to help reduce discomfort. It is important to attend follow-up appointments to ensure your timely recovery.

Dry socket is rare, and is temporary and treatable when it does occur. Our experienced dentist in Orland Park will guide you throughout your recovery. For more information on post-extraction care, contact Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery.

Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery
Phone: (708) 301-5000
Url: https://chicagodentalimplants.com/
10713 W 159th Street
Orland Park, IL 60467