I was getting an upper tooth extracted and my dentist said the root brake off. He think I need to get the root out before I replace the tooth. But, the surgeon can’t see me for three months. Do I just have to go without a tooth that whole time? I feel like a hillbilly as it is.
Natasha
Dear Natasha,
I’m glad you wrote. I’m glad the dentist owned up to the problem. Most dentists have had a problem with an extraction before. That’s fine and I do not fault him for that. However, the problem comes with him allowing you to wait months before getting that root out. That is enough time for the bone to start filling in. This over complicates the surgical procedure. You want to find someone who can do it within three days of the extraction.
As for a replacement. Obviously, a dental implant is the best tooth replacement but you would need time for the extraction site to heal anyway. That doesn’t mean that you have to wait until you get your root extracted and then waiting on that to heal.
When a tooth is removed, there are temporary replacements which can be used in the meantime. A popular choice for people who are not getting a dental implant are either a dental bridge or a removable partial denture. Unlike full dentures, these just take the missing tooth and attach that fake one to the frame. It is usually attached with some type of clip.
If you are planning on getting a dental implant, then the least expensive temporary replacement will be fine. I recommend a dental flipper in that case. Then, once everything is removed and healed, you can move forward with your permanent replacement.
First priority for you is to have the root that was left surgically removed.
This blog is brought to you by gentle dentists in Decatur, AL Drs. Drake and Wallace.