Expert: Tony Appleton BDS DPDS - 6/23/2007

Question
One of my front teeth was knocked backwards 7 days ago and the root of the tooth went forward protruding into my upper lip and I can feel it almost in my right nostril.  I went to the dentist and he was able to match up the bottom of my right front tooth with my left front tooth, but the injured right front tooth root protrudes way out and hurts my gums above the tooth.  I can feel it when I put a finger in my right nose, it is very uncomfortable and it is poking into my upper lip.  Is there any way an oral surgeon or anyone can reposition the tooth root back to where it was before the tooth was knocked out of place?  My dentist says nothing can be done, but I honestly don't see how I can continue going through this pain and discomfort with the tooth root being in the place it is in right now.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Dale  

Answer
Hi Dale

This sounds like a nasty injury!

I'm afraid that the prognosis for a tooth that has been bodily moved, then repositioned like this is not too good.

I think you need to leave this to heal for a few weeks, and I'm sure you will find that the discomfort you are feeling goes. Teeth can be repositioned by oral surgery, but if that is done you will be increasing the chances of losing this tooth significantly.

If the tooth is still out of position when everything has healed then orthodontics may be used to reposition the tooth.

Whatever is done to this tooth your dentist will need to keep a very regular check on it as there is a risk of the nerve dying and also of root resorption occurring.

Regards

Tony Appleton