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Midtown Atlanta & Sandy Springs Root Amputations

Expert tooth-saving care when one root is compromised

Patient at a gum recession consultation at Atlanta Center for Advanced Periodontics
Dr. Brock Pumphrey with a patient during an extraction consultation

Save a tooth by removing only the damaged root

At the Atlanta Center for Advanced Periodontics, our board-certified specialists perform root amputations in Midtown Atlanta and Sandy Springs to help patients preserve a natural tooth when only one root is compromised.

Root amputation is a specialized periodontal procedure most often used for multi-rooted teeth (typically molars). If one root is fractured, infected, or severely damaged, removing that single root may allow the rest of the tooth to remain stable and functional, instead of extracting the entire tooth.

This approach can be an excellent option when you’re trying to avoid tooth loss, maintain chewing function, and reduce the need for more complex replacement procedures.

Schedule a consultation today.

Patient experiences at Atlanta Center for Advanced Periodontics

Elite credentials. Exceptional care.

Dr. Pumphrey and Dr. Davis are among the few periodontists in Atlanta who are board-certified in periodontology. Their expertise ensures precise, comfortable, and high-quality root amputation procedures in Midtown Atlanta and Sandy Springs, especially in cases where preserving your tooth requires a highly skilled approach.

Why root amputation matters

Helps save a natural tooth

Removes only the compromised root, allowing the healthy portion of the tooth to remain in place.

May prevent full extraction

In cases where one root is fractured or unsalvageable, this procedure can be a conservative alternative to removing the entire tooth.

Supports long-term function

Preserving part of the tooth helps maintain chewing efficiency and stability, especially when paired with the right restorative plan.

Enables more predictable treatment

Root amputation can make it possible to stabilize a compromised tooth, especially when combined with periodontal treatment and restorative dentistry.

    How root amputation works

    1. Quick and comfortable treatment: Root amputations are typically completed using local anesthesia, with a focus on comfort and precision.
    2. Detailed evaluation: Your periodontist evaluates the tooth, surrounding bone, and root structure to confirm that removing one root can preserve the tooth successfully.
    3. Root removal: The damaged root is carefully separated and removed while the healthy portion of the tooth remains intact.
    4. Stabilization and healing: Sutures may be placed to support healing, and follow-up appointments help ensure the site is healing properly.
    5. Collaboration with your provider: Root amputations often involve coordination with your general dentist or endodontist to ensure the tooth is restored appropriately after healing.
    Dr. Brock Pumphrey discussing treatment options with a patient during consultation

    Do I need a root amputation?

    You may benefit from this procedure if you:

    • Have a fractured root on a molar
    • Have been told you may need an extraction but want to explore tooth-saving options
    • Have a tooth with infection or damage isolated to one root
    • Were referred by an endodontist or dentist for a collaborative treatment plan
    • Want to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible

    If you’re unsure whether root amputation is right for you, schedule an evaluation with one of our board-certified periodontists.

    Questions? Find the Answer

    What is a root amputation?

    Our Midtown Atlanta & Sandy Springs root amputation is a periodontal procedure used to remove one damaged root of a multi-rooted tooth while preserving the rest of the tooth. It’s often recommended when only one root is fractured or compromised, and saving the tooth is still possible.

    Is root amputation better than extraction?

    In the right case, root amputation can be an excellent alternative to extracting the entire tooth. The best option depends on the condition of the tooth, the stability of the surrounding bone, and your long-term restorative plan.

     

    How long does recovery take after a root amputation?

    Initial healing typically takes 1–2 weeks, with full recovery depending on the complexity of the case. Follow-up visits allow our specialists to monitor healing and coordinate next steps with your restorative provider.

    Who needs a root amputation?

    Patients with molars that have damage limited to one root, such as fractures, severe infection, or bone loss, may be candidates. These cases are often referred by general dentists or endodontists when saving the tooth is preferred over full extraction.

    Does root amputation hurt?

    The procedure is performed under local anesthesia for comfort. Most patients experience mild post-operative soreness, which can typically be managed with the care instructions provided by our team.

    What are my payment options for root amputation in Sandy Springs or Midtown Atlanta?

    We’re a non-contracted provider and do not accept insurance payments directly. However, we would be happy to submit the claim to your insurance for possible reimbursement following your appointments.

    For your convenience, we also offer flexible financing through Cherry, making it easier to manage treatment costs with simple, affordable payment plans.

    Apply online:
    Sandy Springs patients: Apply with Cherry
    Midtown patients: Apply with Cherry

    More questions? Give us a call:

    Atlanta: (404) 876-4867

    Sandy Springs: (770) 442-1010

    Patient Experience

    Atlanta Center for Advanced Periodontics team smiling

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    No matter how you found us, we're glad you did. We’re welcoming new patients and can't wait to meet you.

    Atlanta
    Call  
    (404) 876-4867
    Text (404) 879-5343

    Sandy Springs
    Call: (770) 442-1010
    Text: (770) 742-6142

    Midtown Atlanta

    999 Peachtree St. NE #710
    Atlanta, GA 30309
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    Sandy Springs

    8097 Roswell Rd Bldg B
    Atlanta, GA 30350
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