I had two teeth extracted that I am planning to replace with dental implants. For one of the teeth, my dentist left the root in. When I realized it, I called to ask about it. He says it isn’t a problem, but I can’t imagine it wouldn’t be if I need a root implanted. What do you think?
Janet H.- Indiana
Janet,
There are times that a root can be left, but generally we are talking about root tips, not the whole root; and only when there is a high risk situation. But, there are a couple of things that concern me here. First, when root tips are left, the dentist always informs the patient. It doesn’t sound like your dentist informed you.
My next concern is regarding your dental implants. I hope you’re not planning on using this dentist for your implants. He is defintely not the best dentist for this procedure. He’s got even the most basic aspects of implants wrong. You know more than your dentist. You’re right, you cannot have any of your natural root there if there is going to be an implant placed.
You need to have the root removed as quickly as possible. If your dentist can’t remove it (which at this point wouldn’t surprise me), you’ll need to go to a different dentist. Preferably someone with an experitise in dental implants.
This blog is brought to you by Salem, MA Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Randall Burba.