Can a retained tooth root after extraction be dangerous?

Question

Hi doctor,

Is it okay to leave the root of my right second premolar tooth? The tooth was already decaying when I scheduled an extraction. The tooth's crown was gone, but there were still parts above the gum line. The dentist tried to remove the tooth, but only cracked pieces came out. They said that the root is still attached to the jaw bone. They tried to detach it using elevators but failed. They said it was to leave it, but I had my doubts. They say it will come up around six months to a year and then be easier to remove.

I want to have a better understanding of my situation. Is it okay to leave the root? What will happen if it gets covered up by the gums? Will it rise and fall out eventually?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Sometimes if the root part is very small and is left inside the bone, it will remain there harmlessly without causing any problems. It will come out slowly after a year or two when it will become easier. Removing it now will require removing too much surrounding bone, which may be painful after the anesthesia wears off.

So if the dentist says it is fine, it is better to leave it there for the time being, but there are chances of infection and pain sometimes if too much of the root is left inside. Usually, an X-ray can be taken to determine whether the remaining part needs to be removed or left there.

Thank you.