Can I leave Fractured Tooth Root In
A fragment of a tooth root left behind after an extraction can cause a lot of problems if not treated in a timely manner. There are a few reasons that a tooth fragment may be left behind after an extraction, the main reason is usually the inexperience of the doctor removing the tooth. If the crown portion of the tooth breaks off, it can be challenging to identify that all pieces have been removed.
When a tooth that needs to be extracted has larger cavities, the tooth can break down leaving the roots in bed underneath the gums and unless the doctor is highly skilled, they may not be able to retrieve the leftover tooth roots.
Additionally, a root fragment may be left behind if it is too close to a nerve. We have nerves that run through our jawbone and sometimes, tooth roots can grow very near the nerve and be risky to remove. Analgesia (numbness) and paresthesia (tingling) of the face are nerve issues that can come from removing a tooth fragment that is too close to the nerve.
What risks are associated with leaving a root fragment?
The main risk of leaving a tooth fragment in place is dental infection. Bacteria can cause an abscess to develop which can, in turn, lead to systemic problems. An abscess is a pus-filled sac that forms in the gum tissue when bacteria invades a tooth root. An abscess can be extremely painful and left untreated, the bacteria from the abscess can get into the bloodstream. Infection in the tooth fragment may display symptoms such as swelling and redness in the area, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, earache, and a bad taste in the mouth.
What is a bone spicule?
After a tooth is extracted, bone forms to fill the space left behind. Sometimes, extra bone forms in the area and can stick out of the gum tissue. This is called a bone spicule and usually will heal up and dissolve on its own but sometimes your dentist will need to remove it.
How is a root fragment removed?
Removing a fragment of tooth is done the same as removing the tooth in the first place! A local anesthetic is applied via injection and an incision is made in the gum tissue and the fragment is removed. Sometimes, bone has already grown over the extraction site and may need to be removed in order for your doctor to access the root fragment. The site is then irrigated and stitched up.
If you have to have a tooth extracted, your dentist may be able to do it in-office but if the extraction will be too complicated or if the tooth is very close to a nerve, they will likely send you to an oral surgeon to make sure you receive the best treatment possible.