I had a lower right wisdom tooth removed in early August. It took 3-4 weeks for my gums to heal. However, I began to feel pain behind my eye and in my ear. I asked to see the wisdom tooth after my dentist removed it, but he declined. I suspect that part of the tooth is trapped in my gums and is causing an infection. Could my symptoms be from an infection? Thanks. Ethan from Nashville
Ethan,
The risk of a post-operative infection is primarily a concern when an impacted wisdom tooth is removed and the surgical site is sutured shut. When the tooth is non-impacted and leaves an open socket, any infection can naturally drain, typically allowing for proper healing.
Dentists often give their patients the extracted tooth. If you asked to see the tooth and your dentist declined, that is a reason for concern.
Can a Piece of Tooth Left After Extraction Cause an Infection?
If a large piece of the tooth, such as a whole root, was left in the socket, the overlying gum tissue could heal, entrapping the root in the jawbone and potentially causing a future infection. Symptoms may include eye, ear, or facial pain if the fragment is large.
How Can a Dentist Rule Out a Leftover Tooth Fragment After Extraction?
We recommend scheduling an appointment with an oral surgeon or another qualified dentist for an X-ray of the extraction site. If a retained root is confirmed and the bone has not yet fully grown over it, the fragment can likely be removed easily. If a retained fragment is found, you should consider requesting a refund from the initial provider.
Is It Common for a Tooth to Fracture During Removal?
Complications are not uncommon during extractions, and a broken tooth root is often not the dentist’s fault. For example, in older patients, the root ends often thicken with extra cementum (calcified tissue), making them susceptible to fracture during extraction.
What Should a Dentist Do When a Root Breaks?
When a root breaks during an extraction, the dentist is obligated to inform you, and the resolution depends on the size of the fragment.
- Small fragment (a root tip): It may be safely left alone if it is near a nerve or the sinus, as attempting removal could be more harmful. These small pieces generally heal without complication.
- Large fragment: A dentist or oral surgeon must remove it. This may include removing some surrounding bone tissue.
Dr. David Pumphrey, an Atlanta periodontist, sponsors this post.
