National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

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What procedure involves removal of half of the tooth, including a portion of both the crown and root?

Root canal therapy
Extraction
Root hemisection
Crown lengthening

The correct answer is: Root hemisection

The procedure that involves the removal of half of the tooth, encompassing a portion of both the crown and the root, is known as root hemisection. This surgical technique is typically performed on multi-rooted teeth that are compromised due to extensive decay, periodontal disease, or fractures. During a root hemisection, one root along with its associated crown portion is removed while the remaining root and part of the tooth structure are preserved. This allows for the retention of part of the tooth, which can often help maintain functionality while alleviating pain or infections associated with the compromised root. Root canal therapy focuses on treating the interior of the tooth, specifically the pulp, and does not involve the removal of any part of the tooth structure itself. Extraction refers to the complete removal of a tooth, which does not retain any portion. Crown lengthening involves reshaping the gum tissue and possibly removing some bone to expose more of the tooth for restorative procedures, but it does not involve the removal of a portion of the tooth. Therefore, root hemisection is the only procedure that directly corresponds with the specified removal of half of the tooth.