First step?
Assess the defect and the whole tooth.
← All explanationsRoot perforation
Does a hole in a root necessarily mean losing the tooth?
A root perforation is an unwanted connection between the inside of a tooth and surrounding tissue. It can arise during treatment or from pathological loss of tooth structure. Whether the tooth can be retained depends on the particular defect.
For training & practice ↓
AI-generated
Choose a view
Identify the connection
The location and size are assessed. The natural root-tip opening must be distinguished from an unintended additional connection.
Assess repair
Suitable defects may be sealed with an appropriate material. Access, infection and periodontal support influence planning.
Review healing
A repaired defect needs follow-up. One radiograph cannot establish guaranteed long-term success.
Read the full explanation
Identify the connection
The location and size are assessed. The natural root-tip opening must be distinguished from an unintended additional connection.
Assess repair
Suitable defects may be sealed with an appropriate material. Access, infection and periodontal support influence planning.
Review healing
A repaired defect needs follow-up. One radiograph cannot establish guaranteed long-term success.
Notes on the teaching images
- Model of an unwanted opening; not a diagnosis.
- The defect is shown open; no repair outcome is depicted.
- Fictional teaching scene; not a patient story.
At a glance
Possible approach?
Professional sealing in suitable cases.
Afterwards?
Follow-up according to an individual plan.
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
Perforation versus natural canal exit
The normal root-tip opening belongs to tooth anatomy. An additional defect may affect surrounding tissues.
Quick answers
Is this a root fracture?
No. Perforation means an extra opening; fracture means a crack or break. They require different assessment.
Must the tooth be removed?
Not necessarily. Restorability and risks are assessed using the complete findings.
What if swelling develops?
Contact the treating practice promptly. Rapidly increasing swelling, fever or significant symptoms need urgent assessment; breathing or swallowing difficulties require immediate medical help.
At the practice
For a personal discussion
Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Which findings support or limit retention of this tooth?
A known defect can be discussed using the findings. For new swelling, fever or significant pain, call directly rather than waiting for a routine online appointment.
Call the practice · 0221 669 401 80Telephone contactLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Perforation
- An unwanted additional connection.
- Resorption
- Loss of dental hard tissue.
- Prognosis
- An estimate of possible outcome.
Make the distinction
The normal root-tip opening belongs to tooth anatomy. An additional defect may affect surrounding tissues.
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.