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What to do if roots are retained during a tooth extraction?

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 to get surgery done in my hometown as the roots of my teeth are long. But currently, I am unable to go there. The dentist whom I visited recently was unable to remove one of my teeth, and its roots are broken. What do I do? Kindly help.

Thank you.

Hi,

We welcome you to the icliniq.com family. I appreciate the confidence that you place in me for your healthcare consultation.

Please specify which tooth was extracted and the reason for extraction too. But as you said roots are inside the bone, there are different modalities that we have to do depending upon the amount of root left, infection status of the roots, proximity to the nerves, and your sinuses.

1) If the roots are less than 0.11 inches in length and there is no infection in the associated area, we can leave it as it is. It will not cause any harm.

2) If the roots are longer than 0.11 inches and infected, we have to remove them.

3) If the roots are very near to the nerve, then take a dental opinion as it needs surgery to remove it.

4) If it is in the upper jaw close to the sinus, a specialist opinion would be required regarding its removal.

Please get an X-ray done with respect to the tooth that was extracted and upload it. I will be able to tell you exactly what needs to be done.

If you have pain, take over-the-counter painkillers like tablet Paracetamol 500 mg or tablet Diclofenac depending on the intensity of the pain.

I hope this helps. Do revert in case of any further queries.

Thank you.

The Probable causes

The probable cause could be a broken tooth root.

Investigations to be done

I advise you to get an X-ray done.

Preventive measures

Keep the area clean.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At July 7, 2023
Reviewed AtDecember 4, 2024

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