Drill Bit Left in Canal - is this safe?

[sllowe]

Hi Dr.

My husband recently underwent a root canal.  The drill bit broke off and the dentist did attempt extraction, but was unsuccessful.  At this time, it's sealed up my husband is on antibiotics and will return to the dentist in a month.  the dentist will then decide (I think) if he is going to cap it, etc.

I do trust this dentist, but am concerned that this could cause a problem in the future with what remains of the tooth, infection, and also if it would affect my husband if he had to have an MRI.

Thank you very much for your time.

[sllowe]

I believe it broke all the way up.  My husband described it visually like up and then a little hook at the end.  Does that sound right? Not knowing one ounce about roots -- not so sure I've relayed it properly.

Thank you so much for providing your knowledge in this manner.

[Ramin Mehregan, DMD]

Dear sllowe
Potentially yes, depending on where it broke of. As far as MRI it should not have any impact, just let the radiologist know. (A lot of people have silver fillings too!!!)
To put your mind to ease have an Endontist (root canal specialist) evaluate it.