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Dentistry - Perforated root with pin protruding into gum

Expert: Tony Appleton BDS DPDS - 11/7/2009

Question
I have been having RCT on a rear upper molar that had initially had RCT 10 years prior. The dentist cleaned and filled the roots and inserted rods to strengthen the tooth, and I was booked in for final treatment 3 weeks later. After the anaesthetic wore off I was in some pain. I awoke from my sleep in pain and tried taking over the counter pain relief. As the day progressed so did my pain and my cheek became puffy. I found an ulcer on the inside of the gum next to the treated tooth and the surrounding gum is very pale-almost white. I saw the dentist the next day who checked my Xray and told me he had perforated the root of my tooth with the rod, which is now sticking into the gum. I was prescribed codeine and antibiotics and told to come back for my booked appointment where he will lift the gum and snip off the protruding gum. I have remained in pain and still swelling after 5 days. Should I insist on an earlier appointment, and should I trust the dentist to do this remedial work?

Answer
Hi Jessica

Do you feel confident in this dentist? A perforation like this is not uncommon and happens to the best of us. If you are happy with him then continue with him - if not change. If you are in pain or it is worsening then ask to be seen sooner.

Regards

Tony Appleton

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