Diagnosing molar furcation invasions

Molar teeth with deep, horizontal furcation invasions (FI) are among the most difficult to treat periodontally. Therefore, it is important that these defects be detected early when the chances for successful, long-term treatment results are good. Even advanced FI are often treatable if their extent is properly diagnosed. The role of radiographs in the diagnosis of FI is discussed with emphasis on their limitations. The importance of accurate horizontal and vertical probing of FI is stressed. Proper probing techniques are presented along with anatomical factors which may adversely affect accuracy.