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Dentistry/root left in after an extraction

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Question
I have recently changed dentists and my new dentist has discovered roots left in from extractions carried out by my previous dentist. My new dentist is advising me to have these roots extracted. This leaves me asking the question; was my previous dentist incompetent/irresponsible in not properly extracting these roots or is my current dentist wanting to charge me for work which is unnecessary?

Answer
Hi Ian

It is not necessarily egligent to leave tooth roots behind, but the dentist should have discussed this with you at the time.  Whether or not these roots need extracting now really depends on their position, whether or not they are infected and what other treatment is being proposed.  The roots don't have to be removed simply because they are there, but sometimes it is preferable to remove them.

Regards

Tony Appleton

Dentistry

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Tony Appleton BDS DPDS

Expertise

I am an experienced general dental practitioner in private dental practice. I have worked for the past 25 or so years in the UK, and own a busy practice in Stratford upon Avon, Stratford Dental. From early 2012 my wife and I moved to Canberra, Australia, where I have taken up the position of Lead Dentist in a large city-centre practice. I will happily answer questions related to general practice, and have interests in endodontics (root canal), dental implants, CEREC/E4D cad-cam dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

Experience

I have been a general dental practitioner for over 25 years, working initially under the NHS, but since 2001 have been solely in private practice. I run a busy practice with my wife, Lisa, who is also a dentist. I have also been closely involved in the training of young dentists, and have lectured to dentists on a variety of subjects, both clinical and managerial, related to general dental practice.

Organizations

Church Street Dental Practice

Stratford Dental

Modern Dentistry

British Dental Association



Publications

British Dental Journal

Cancer Treatment Reviews



Education/Credentials
BDS Sheffield 1986 DPDS Bristol 2001

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