Using a Hedström endodontic file to retrieve a root tip.

O ften, when removing a tooth, a dentist hears a familiar cracking sound. He or she hopes that it is just the alveolar bone. However, after removing the tooth, sometimes the dentist discovers that there is a root tip left in place. This is a tricky and potentially dangerous situation. The root tip can be pushed into the sinus, the mandibular nerve canal or the buccal mucosa. This would cause the need for an additional surgical procedure or a referral for treatment. Following is a description of a procedure that can prevent this situation from arising, it is one I have used for years with success.