I had my right molar pulled 7 months ago. Now the bone graft is showing through my gums. Will it heal? Is it infected? (Photo)

Question

I had my back right molar (tooth 17) pulled 7 months ago due to multiple failed root canals and an underlying infection. Bone grafting was done, but no implant. It took a few weeks for the pain to subside and for it to heal. Everything seemed somewhat normal. Cut to two weeks ago where I noticed a hard little white speck of bone poking through my gums near where the extraction took place. It was not painful, and fell out. Now it's back, but much bigger. Will it heal? Is it infected?

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:Most likely the piece of bone graft has to be removed.  It is best to have your dentist look at the area.Best,Dr. Maddahi

Amber Garcia, DDS · Answer

That area appears to be healing well. When a bone graft is placed, it is usually placed as particles. Sometimes the particles will get stuck in the soft tissue and can start to make their way out kind of like a splinter. If it isn't painful, I would guess that's what is happening. If it's uncomfortable at all, it could be a small piece of dead bone that needs to be removed. It's a very simple procedure, but you would need to go back to your dentist for that. That would be odd to happen 7 months after, though.

I had my right molar pulled 7 months ago. Now the bone graft is showing through my gums. Will it heal? Is it infected? (Photo)

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I had my right molar pulled 7 months ago. Now the bone graft is showing through my gums. Will it heal? Is it infected? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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