A drill bit file broke off in my lower molar, can it be removed by extracting the tooth?

Question

Paul D. Kantor, DDS · Answer

This
is something that sometimes happens during root canal treatment. I think being
evaluated by a root canal specialist (endodontist) would be a good idea -
especially if you have symptoms. The file would be removed with an extraction, but
often a separated instrument will cause no problems and only should be checked periodically.
More than once I have found broken files in teeth during an exam of a new
patient and not only were there no symptoms after 10 or 15 years but the
patient was unaware it was even there.

Andrew Currie, DMD, MS · Answer

Jackie,    I'm sorry to hear that a file broke in your molar--I assume you were having a root canal done and a file separated in the canal. Depending on how far along they were in the procedure and where the file separated, sometimes you don't need to remove it. If the root canal was almost completed, then it's typically ok to leave it and the root canal will often be totally fine. If it separated early on, it's probably worth seeing an endodontist (Root canal specialist) to see if they can remove it and complete the procedure.     If the tooth is condemned for some reason--there was a crack in the tooth, the file went out the side of the root, etc., then yes, the file would come out at the time of having the tooth removed. Once the tooth is removed you can generally replace it with an implant. You'll have to wait a few months in most cases to allow the bone to heal before the implant goes in, and then wait a few more months before the crown can be placed. A bridge may also be an option if there is a tooth on either side of the space, but an implant is usually your best choice.     I hope that helps, but without an x-ray and a detailed history of the procedure I can't give you too many more helpful insights. Best of luck!Andrew Currie, DMD

A drill bit file broke off in my lower molar, can it be removed by extracting the tooth?

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A drill bit file broke off in my lower molar, can it be removed by extracting the tooth?

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Tooth Repair

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.