What is divided?
The tooth, for example its crown or separate root portions.
← All explanationsTooth sectioning (odontotomy)
Why might a tooth be divided during removal?
Tooth sectioning, also called odontotomy, deliberately divides a tooth into sections during surgical removal. The crown and roots, or individual roots, can then be removed separately. Whether this helps depends on tooth position, shape and nearby structures.
For training & practice ↓
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Choose a view
Understand shape and position
A tooth may be angled, largely enclosed in bone or have several roots with different paths. Planning considers both the tooth and its surroundings.
Divide the tooth deliberately
Under anaesthesia, suitable instruments are used to divide the tooth into planned sections. This is an intended surgical step, not an accidental break.
Remove the sections
The sections are removed according to the plan and the wound is cared for. Sectioning does not replace assessment or careful aftercare.
Read the full explanation
Understand shape and position
A tooth may be angled, largely enclosed in bone or have several roots with different paths. Planning considers both the tooth and its surroundings.
Divide the tooth deliberately
Under anaesthesia, suitable instruments are used to divide the tooth into planned sections. This is an intended surgical step, not an accidental break.
Remove the sections
The sections are removed according to the plan and the wound is cared for. Sectioning does not replace assessment or careful aftercare.
Notes on the teaching images
- Angled tooth in model · no individual plan
- Starting anatomy · tooth sectioning is not shown
- Wound closure as a separate step
At a glance
Who needs it?
Selected surgical removals following assessment and planning.
What happens afterwards?
Wound care and aftercare tailored to the operation.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Planned sectioning or accidental fracture?
Odontotomy is deliberate division during an operation. An unplanned tooth or root fracture is different.
Quick answers
Is this only used for wisdom teeth?
No. Other difficult-to-remove teeth, including teeth with several roots or extensive damage, may also benefit from sectioning.
Does it always involve removing bone?
Not necessarily. Dividing the tooth and making bone access are different steps. Some operations combine them.
Does a divided tooth mean roots will be left behind?
Sectioning usually helps complete the planned removal. Intentionally retaining root portions is a separate decision that requires its own explanation and discussion.
At the practice
For the appointment
You can bring this question to your appointment:
Why is sectioning planned, and which parts of my tooth will be removed?
Before surgical removal, ask for a clear explanation of any planned tooth sectioning and aftercare.
Discuss your findingsAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Odontotomy
- Deliberate surgical division of a tooth.
- Multirooted tooth
- A tooth with several roots whose shape may affect removal.
Make the distinction
Odontotomy is deliberate division during an operation. An unplanned tooth or root fracture is different.
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.