Is it better to extract the residual tooth root or not

Oral problems are becoming more and more serious due to the complex diet and intake of different types of food by modern people. Some people's teeth are damaged by tooth decay, and their oral problems are worrying, with only the remaining tooth roots left. So is it better to extract the remaining tooth roots or not? In response to this problem, the editor will give you a detailed introduction to the related issues of residual tooth roots, hoping to be helpful to everyone. It is recommended that you see a dentist if the condition is serious.

What is residual tooth root

The residual tooth roots we often refer to are the remaining tooth roots after the crown is destroyed. This part of the tooth root cannot play a role in daily chewing activities because it has lost its normal biting function. In the front tooth area, it will affect the appearance and sometimes even cause pain and inflammation, affecting oral health and quality of life.

Can I not extract the residual tooth root?

Among the many patients I have seen, most of them are resistant to having residual roots removed, and one of them, Mr. Li, is particularly resistant. Uncle Li once sat opposite me with a terrified look on his face: "I saw with my own eyes an old man in the hospital who was halfway through having his teeth extracted. Suddenly his lips turned purple and his face turned pale. He was carried out by his family and doctors. My heart was pounding at the time. Now I get scared whenever I mention tooth extraction! So I want to ask, can I not extract this residual tooth root?"

The remaining tooth roots do not need to be extracted! But it depends on the specific situation.

First, we need to look at the looseness of the remaining tooth roots. Generally, the degree of looseness is divided into grade I, grade II, and grade III. If it is grade I or II, it can be retained through some basic periodontal treatments including some endodontic treatments, but if it is greater than grade III, extraction is generally recommended.

Second, consider the relationship between the cross-section, residual root, and horizontal gum line. If the residual root section is above or flush with the gums, or even within 3.5 mm below the gums, these can be retained.

Third, determine the depth of the residual root in the alveolar bone by taking X-rays. If the depth of the residual root in the bone tissue is relatively shallow, such as only 3-4mm, and if the tooth root is not loose, it can be maintained for a period of time through treatment. If there is 7-8mm and it is located within 3.5mm below the gums, the residual root can be exposed through root canal treatment or minor periodontal surgery, and this can also be retained.

What is the best way to preserve residual tooth roots?

Magnetic attachments are known as the first choice for preserving residual tooth roots. It places an armature structure on the abutment teeth and the original residual tooth roots, and a magnet structure on the denture, which gives a certain magnetic adhesion between the denture and the abutment teeth, overcoming the defect of insufficient retention force of traditional dentures. The retention force is stable and long-lasting, improving the patient's chewing efficiency. It is very simple and convenient to put on and take off. The magnet can be reused after being damaged or discarded. No metal is exposed in the patient's mouth. It is beautiful and has no foreign body sensation.

Magnetic attachment dentures can not only make good use of the tooth roots, but also maintain physiological stimulation of the alveolar bone, prevent the alveolar bone from atrophy, and thus effectively delay the aging of the gums.