Management of Class III furcally involved abutments for fixed prosthodontic restorations

Class III furca-involved molars provide formidable challenges, but the literature suggests that such teeth can be successfully treated. Under specific circumstances described in this article, reasonable longevity may be expected when advanced furcal involvement of abutments has been treated with (1) open-flap root debridement, (2) root separation with metal furcal replacement, (3) root resection as a conventional FPD or splint abutment, or (4) root resection as a vertical stop for a fixed cantilever prosthesis. Well-controlled maintenance therapy is essential for success.