Can I Leave a Fractured Root In?
Do you find yourself suffering from toothache, swelling in your gums, or an unusual sensitivity to temperature? If you're facing such issues, it's crucial to consult your dentist for an accurate diagnosis. One potential cause for these symptoms could be a fractured root.
Below is information not only about root fractures but also potential treatment options, whether a fractured root can be left in, and more.
What is a Fractured Root?
A “fractured root” refers to a condition where a tooth has a crack below the gum line and across the tooth's root. This is typically caused by injury-based trauma to the root of the tooth, although biting excessively hard and other factors can also cause it.
How Serious Is a Fractured Root?
A root fracture is considered a serious dental emergency. Not only are root fractures uncomfortable, but they can lead to oral health issues if not addressed. It’s important to address a root fracture as soon as possible and may necessitate a trip to an emergency dentist.
Keep in mind, if you delay seeking treatment for the fracture, your dentist may need to resort to a tooth extraction to prevent the spread of an infection.
Causes of a Fractured Root
Root fractures can occur for a variety of reasons. These include:
- Big fillings weakening the integrity of the structure of the tooth
- Teeth being used to open packages
- A tooth being damaged by blunt force trauma, which can include a sports-related injury, car accident, etc.
- An abrupt temperature change within the mouth
Fractured Root Treatment
Most often, your dentist will carry out a root canal treatment to handle a root fracture. This procedure involves the removal of infected tooth tissue, which is essential to halt the spread of infection. Once the procedure is completed, your dentist might opt to place a dental crown (a prosthetic replacement for the tooth's crown).
With prompt dental treatment, it's likely your dentist will be able to salvage the tooth. However, if left untreated for too long or if the damage is too severe, extraction might be the only recourse left. That being said, extraction is a last resort, and every effort will be made by your dentist to prevent it.
Can I Leave a Fractured Root In?
Tooth fragments are sometimes left behind due to the leftover root fragment being located near a nerve. Teeth often have a close association with nerves that course through our jawbone. Attempting to remove such fragments can risk nerve damage, which could potentially lead to lifelong repercussions.
With that said, there are risks to leaving fragments behind. The main risk of leaving tooth fragments in place is dental infections. As this is the case, the fragments should be removed if at all possible.
Book an Appointment Now
If you suspect a fractured root or if you're experiencing discomfort in your mouth, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment. Our top-notch dentist will assess the tooth to identify the discomfort's cause and administer the appropriate treatment to address the problem.