Can I leave Fractured Tooth Root In
When a tooth that needs to be extracted has larger cavities, the tooth can begin to break down, leaving the roots embedded beneath the gum tissue. Unless the doctor extracting the tooth is highly skilled, they may not be able to retrieve all of the leftover tooth roots.
A fragment of tooth root left behind after an extraction can cause a lot of problems if not treated in a timely manner. The main reason that a fragment is left behind is simply due to the inexperience of the doctor, though when the crown portion of the tooth breaks off, it can be challenging to ensure that all pieces of the tooth and roots have been removed.
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, the roots of our teeth can grow very close to the nerve, making them more difficult to remove. Analgesia (numbness) and paresthesia (tingling) of the face are nerve problems that can arise after removing a tooth fragment that is too close to the nerve. If your doctor determines that the fragment should be left, the site will be left to heal.
Complications of 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 within the gum tissue when bacteria gets into 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.
You may also be at risk of developing a bone spicule. After a tooth is extracted, bone forms to fill the space left behind. Sometimes, excess bone forms and can stick protrude through the gum tissue. This is called a bone spicule and will usually dissolve and heal on its own but sometimes, your dentist will need to remove it.
Removing a Root Fragment
Removing a fragment of tooth is the same procedure as extracting the tooth in the first place. A local anesthetic is administered by injection and a small incision is made in the gum tissue so the doctor can access the fragment. Sometimes, bone has already grown over the extraction site and may need to be removed in order for your doctor to reach the root fragment. The site is then irrigated, sutured, and left to heal.
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 or periodontist. Being referred out is more likely if you are looking to replace the tooth with a dental implant.
Your dentist is always the best place to start! They will be able to identify a tooth that needs to come out and can help provide treatment.