Tag Archives: tooth extraction roots left

Teeth whitening

My dentist extracted my tooth and left two roots behind

I had not been to a dentist in years, so I decided to get an exam and cleaning and schedule teeth whitening later. A needed several fillings before I could get my teeth whitened, and the dentist said one tooth was severely decayed and required an extraction. The dentist extracted the tooth last Thursday, and this weekend when I looked at the extraction hole to clean it, I saw two roots of the tooth left. Will those roots interfere with a dental implant, and why would my dentist leave them? Thank you. Konnor

Thank you for your question. Molar teeth have multiple roots, and it is a challenge to see into an extraction site near the back of your mouth. Are you sure that you see tooth roots are left and not debris stuck in the socket?

If your dentist left two roots behind, there must be a reason for it—although your dentist should inform you when this happens. Sometimes the location of tooth root tips is so close to the sinus that removing them could puncture the sinus or damage or nerve. But the roots must be removed before getting a dental implant.

Not all dentists are comfortable retrieving tooth roots and tips, and some do not have the instruments required to do it. The process can be challenging and lengthy for a dentist who does not have much experience in this area. If you have roots left in the extraction site instead of debris and your dentist cannot remove them, an oral surgeon can. It is easier to remove the roots soon after extraction, so schedule an appointment promptly

Teeth Whitening After Extraction

After the extraction site heals, you can begin teeth whitening treatment. When your teeth are as white as you want, your implant dentist will begin the process. A lab will make your dental crowns to match your brightened smile.

Selecting Your Dental Implants Provider

Diagram of dental imlant components, including the root form, connector, and crown
Dental implant

Look for a skilled implant dentist or oral surgeon. If your dentist left roots and not debris behind, it might be challenging for him to resolve the issue with the roots before placing a dental implant. It might be best to ask for a referral to an oral surgeon for tooth root removal and implant placement.

Plano, TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy sponsors this post.

Sedation Dentistry

Effects of Tooth Roots Left Behind After Extraction

I have tooth roots left from previous extractions that a dentist did years ago. Now a need surgery around the area where the root was left. The tooth that will be extracted is above a root. Is this a risky surgery? My current dentist says it should be no problem, but his answer does not give me confidence. I sent an x-ray of the tooth and the root beneath it. I’m already anxious about another extraction, and the thought of nerve damage is really scary. – Danni from NM

Danni

Your lower premolar is near the mental foramen, an opening in your front lower jaw that transmits the mental nerve and artery. A skilled surgeon can extract your tooth without damaging the nerve. But your dentist doesn’t sound confident about extracting the tooth without damage.

Your x-ray shows that the dentist who completed your extractions left a large amount of root behind. The bone didn’t heal correctly and left a defect that can damage neighboring teeth. We also see a fragment on the right side that doesn’t appear to be threatening.

Photo of female patient sitting and relaxing in a dental chair, for information on sedation dentistry from Plano female dentist, Dr. Miranda Lacy.
Ask about sedation options to help you relax during tooth extraction

We’re sorry that your former dentist did sloppy extractions. If your current dentist isn’t confident about removing your tooth without damaging a nerve, please get a second opinion or ask your dentist to refer you to an oral surgeon.

During your second opinion or consultation with a surgeon or another dentist, ask about sedation options to calm your anxiety before and during treatment.

Plano, TX female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy sponsors this post.