Furcation

Anatomical feature in teeth

General Information
Latin	furca
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System	Dental anatomy
Artery
Vein
Nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor
Function
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes

Furcation refers to the anatomical area of a multirooted tooth where the roots divide. It is a critical area in dental anatomy and periodontology, as it can be a site of periodontal disease and other dental issues.

Anatomy

In multirooted teeth, such as molars and some premolars, the furcation is the area where the roots separate from the main body of the tooth, known as the crown. The furcation can be located at different levels depending on the type of tooth and its position in the mouth. For example, in maxillary molars, there are typically three roots, and thus two furcation areas: buccal and mesial. In mandibular molars, there are usually two roots, resulting in a single furcation area.

Clinical Significance

Furcation involvement is a term used in periodontology to describe the loss of bone between the roots of a multirooted tooth due to periodontal disease. This condition can complicate oral hygiene and treatment, as the furcation area is difficult to clean and maintain. Furcation involvement is classified into three grades:

• Grade I: Incipient or early stage, where the furcation can be felt with a probe but not entered.
• Grade II: Partial involvement, where the probe can enter the furcation but not pass through.
• Grade III: Through-and-through involvement, where the probe can pass completely through the furcation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of furcation involvement is typically done through clinical examination using a periodontal probe and radiographic imaging. The use of a furcation probe, which is specifically designed to assess the furcation area, is essential in determining the extent of involvement.

Treatment

Treatment of furcation involvement depends on the severity and may include:

• Improved oral hygiene and professional cleaning to control plaque and calculus.
• Surgical procedures such as flap surgery to gain access to the furcation area for cleaning.
• Regenerative procedures to restore lost bone and periodontal support.
• Extraction of the affected tooth in severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved.

Prevention

Preventing furcation involvement involves maintaining good oral hygiene practices, regular dental check-ups, and professional cleanings to prevent the onset and progression of periodontal disease.

Also see

• Periodontal disease
• Dental anatomy
• Tooth root
• Periodontology