My dentist had trouble extracting my upper left first molar tooth. A root broke during the extraction, and my dentist couldn’t retrieve it. He referred me to an oral surgeon who can’t see me until late December. I’m concerned about the delay, but I also wonder if I need the root extracted or if I can proceed with the dental implant procedure. Thanks. Burke from OK
Burke,
A portion of a tooth root may fracture during an extraction, especially when the root shape or position makes it complex or challenging to remove. Removing remaining fragments may be beyond the scope of the dentist’s expertise. Many dentists refer complex cases to a specialist for further treatment. However, a three-month delay in follow-up care is excessive. The
What Happens If You Delay Tooth Root Extraction?
Delaying tooth root extraction can lead to bone growth and scar tissue formation, significantly complicating the procedure. To minimize complications, a dentist should arrange a follow-up appointment within a few days.
The location of the tooth, an upper first molar, is a factor to consider. The roots of these teeth often lie close to the maxillary sinus. Attempting to remove a root fragment in this area risks perforating the sinus, causing additional complications that require an involved surgical procedure.
Get a Second Opinion on Tooth Root Extraction
We recommend getting a second opinion from a root canal specialist (endodontist) or oral surgeon. A thorough evaluation can determine the best course of action. If the root fragment is small and located near the sinus, it may be wise to leave it in place. However, if the fragment poses a risk or is causing discomfort, the specialist will remove it.
A periodontist will ensure the extraction area is healthy before dental implant bone grafting and surgical placement.
Atlanta periodontist Dr. David Pumphrey sponsors this post.
