What is it?
A separated fragment of dead bone.
← All explanationsBone sequestrum
What is a bone sequestrum?
A bone sequestrum is a piece of dead bone that has become separated from surrounding living bone. In the jaw it may occur with different conditions or healing problems. A hard edge noticed after a procedure is not automatically a sequestrum and should be assessed if it causes symptoms.
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A separated fragment
The term describes a devitalised piece of bone separated from surrounding viable bone. Its location and extent can vary.
Distinguishing the cause
A sequestrum may accompany chronic bone infection, but does not prove infection by itself. Such a fragment can also form in other types of bone necrosis.
Individual assessment
History, examination and imaging where needed help establish the context. Observation, treatment of the cause or removal is decided individually. Do not pull at or cut the fragment yourself.
Read the full explanation
A separated fragment
The term describes a devitalised piece of bone separated from surrounding viable bone. Its location and extent can vary.
Distinguishing the cause
A sequestrum may accompany chronic bone infection, but does not prove infection by itself. Such a fragment can also form in other types of bone necrosis.
Individual assessment
History, examination and imaging where needed help establish the context. Observation, treatment of the cause or removal is decided individually. Do not pull at or cut the fragment yourself.
Notes on the teaching images
- Separate fragment in a teaching model
- Cause and vitality cannot be read from the image
- Individual assessment, not self-treatment
At a glance
How is it assessed?
Through history, examination and imaging where indicated.
What should I avoid?
Removing it yourself or manipulating the wound.
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Often confused
Bone necrosis
Bone necrosis means dead bone tissue. A sequestrum is a separated fragment of that tissue, so the terms are not interchangeable.
Quick answers
Is every small bone fragment after an extraction a sequestrum?
No. Hard edges and small fragments have several possible explanations. Pain, swelling, exposed bone or delayed healing should prompt a wound review.
Does a sequestrum always mean infection?
No. Dead bone may be infected, but finding a fragment alone does not establish its cause.
Does it have to be removed?
That depends on factors including symptoms, size, location and the underlying condition. Do not remove it yourself; the treating clinician decides after assessment.
What should I mention at the appointment?
Describe previous procedures, your symptoms and how they have changed. Bring information about your medical history and medicines.
At the practice
For the appointment
You can bring this question to your appointment:
Is this a sequestrum, and which possible cause needs assessment?
For new symptoms, contact a dental practice promptly. Emergency warning signs require immediate help.
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- Devitalised
- Tissue that is no longer living.
- Sequestration
- Separation of a piece of dead bone from surrounding bone.
- Involucrum
- New living bone that can surround a sequestrum in some chronic conditions.
Make the distinction
Imaging may show a separated bone fragment, but its cause requires clinical context. Not every sequestrum is infectious; depending on the findings, tumours are also part of the medical differential diagnosis.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.