Conservative management of grossly carious mandibular first molar with a hemisection approach: a case report

The term hemisection refers to the removal or separation of a root-with its accompanying crown portion-from a 2-rooted tooth, such as a mandibular molar. A hemisection is considered a conservative treatment option for mandibular molars that would otherwise require extraction. A hemisection of an affected tooth helps to preserve the tooth structure and alveolar bone and is more economical than other treatment options. Therefore, hemisection may be a suitable alternative to extraction and implant therapy and should be discussed with patients during their consideration of treatment options. This case report describes a hemisection procedure in which the grossly carious distal half of an endodontically treated mandibular left first molar was removed.