What is the anatomical term for where the roots of multi-rooted teeth divide?

The anatomical term for where the roots of multi-rooted teeth divide is furcation. In dental anatomy, furcation refers specifically to the area where the roots of a tooth separate, which is commonly seen in multi-rooted teeth such as molars. This division plays a critical role in how these teeth anchor within the jawbone and how they function during chewing and biting.

Understanding furcation is essential in dental practice, especially when assessing periodontal health. In cases of periodontal disease, the furcation area can become a site for plaque accumulation and infection, leading to further complications. Recognizing the significance of the furcation can greatly aid in diagnosis and planning for treatment, such as scaling or surgical intervention in certain cases.

The other terms have specific definitions that do not relate to the division of roots. Mobility refers to the ability of a tooth to move within its socket, which is more about the stability of the tooth rather than the anatomical structure of its roots. Alveolus denotes the bone socket that holds the tooth in place rather than the location where roots divide. The cementoenamel junction (CEJ) is the area where the enamel of the tooth crown meets the cementum of the root, and again, it does not pertain to the division of