Bicuspidization: salvaging a mandibular molar with endo-periodontal lesion

Abstract

Teeth are for a lifetime. Losing a tooth will lead to many deleterious consequences starting with the loss of function of the lost tooth and the one coming into occlusion with that. With the increasing life expectancy, the importance of maintaining teeth is highlighted. Replacement is restricted due to financial restrictions and comorbidities contraindicating the replacement options. In a multi-rooted tooth once the area between roots is affected it was routine to extract the tooth as most of the treatment protocols are not giving promising results. The case described here was successfully treated by sectioning the tooth and facilitating access to routine care. Ultimately the tooth is in function as 2 premolars. This has served the tooth to be maintained in the arch at a relatively low cost and least surgical or prosthetic intervention.