iCliniq Logo
HomeAnswersDentistryroot stumps

What is the black pointy substance sticking out of my gums?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have done a root canal before few years. But it fell off, and nothing has been there for a few years. This morning, when I woke up, I saw a black pointy substance sticking out on my gum. What is it?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through the attachment (attachment removed to protect patient identity). On looking your tooth and after going through your complaint, there is a retained root piece. It is left behind there. There is nothing to worry. You need to extract it soon from your dentist. Root canal treatment generally fails when the tooth is not capped. Since it has fallen on its own, the top portion of the tooth has come off leaving the root stump. In some instances, you can see it after a long time due to gum recession.

The Probable causes

Investigations to be done

Treatment plan

Regarding follow up

Answered byDr. Asma Parveen

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At September 29, 2017
Reviewed AtNovember 24, 2018

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Listen to related tracks in our music library

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.