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Home / Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry

Broken Instruments Retrieval/
Management Under the Microscope

Precision Recovery: Broken Instrument Management Under the Microscope

During root canal treatment, especially in narrow or curved canals, small instruments can sometimes break inside the tooth. While this is rare, it can complicate the procedure and require specialized care. At Lilac Medical Centre, we offer expert retrieval and management of broken instruments using advanced dental microscopes, restoring safety, comfort, and the success of your treatment.

Microscope-assisted retrieval allows our endodontic specialists to locate and remove fractured instruments with precision and minimal damage to surrounding tooth structure. With enhanced visibility and specialized tools, we are able to work safely within the tooth’s delicate anatomy, even in complex or previously treated cases.

Best course of action

In situations where removal is not possible, we assess the best course of action, whether sealing around the fragment or exploring alternative treatment paths, always prioritizing your long-term oral health and comfort.

At Lilac Medical Centre, we approach every challenge with care, skill, and the latest technology. If a complication arises during your root canal or you need retreatment, our team is here to provide the expert support needed to protect and preserve your natural teeth.

Patient Reviews

Great and professional service provided by Dr Adnan Afandi. He is skilled and talented

Aya Alkharrat

25 weeks ago

Best dental services being provided in Lilac, I’ve been treated by Dr. Adnan and Dr. Omar, they are very flexible, helpful, and doing their job very smoothly, when it comes also to the receptionists, they are always happy when welcoming you and serve you

Ahmed Alulu

38 weeks ago

Honestly, it’s a beautiful, classy clinic. I recommend visiting it And the reception is excellent in scheduling appointments. I especially thank Dr. Adnan for his elegant treatment. Thank you.

abdullah

29 Jul 2023

Our Specialist in Endodontics

Our specialist is dedicated to preserving natural teeth through advanced root canal treatments and precision care. Skilled in managing complex cases under the microscope and performing broken instrument retrieval or management under the microscope, they use cutting-edge technology to ensure accuracy, comfort, and long-lasting results.

Dr. Adnan Alafandi

Specialist Endodontist

Master of Science in
Microscopic Endodontics

Dr.Abdulrahman Salhab

General Dentist

Member of the American
Dental Association

FAQs

What is broken instrument retrieval in a root canal?
Broken instrument retrieval is the removal of a separated or fractured endodontic file left inside a canal, often during a previous root canal elsewhere. Using a dental microscope, the endodontist locates and carefully removes the fragment so the tooth can be cleaned and sealed. At Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi, this is carried out by a specialist endodontist.
Endodontic instruments can separate inside a tooth when fine files are used in narrow, curved, or calcified canals, where metal fatigue or stress causes a fragment to fracture. This can happen during any root canal, including treatment done elsewhere. Dr. Adnan Alafandi, Specialist Endodontist at Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi, retrieves these fragments under the microscope.
A broken file is removed by first locating it with a dental microscope, which magnifies the canal and provides strong light. The endodontist then uses fine instruments and ultrasonic tips to loosen and lift the fragment out, or to bypass it if needed. At Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi, this precise work is done by a specialist endodontist.
Broken instrument retrieval is needed when a fractured file inside a canal blocks proper cleaning and sealing, or contributes to ongoing infection or symptoms. It is often discovered after a previous root canal. Not every fragment must be removed, so assessment is key. Dr. Adnan Alafandi at Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi advises on the best approach.
Broken instrument retrieval is carried out under local anaesthetic, so the tooth is numb during the procedure. Modern techniques and effective anaesthetic make the treatment comfortable, and the microscope allows careful, targeted work. Mild tenderness afterwards is normal and settles quickly. Our specialist endodontist in Abu Dhabi focuses on your comfort throughout.
The microscope magnifies the canal many times and provides focused light, so the endodontist can see the fractured fragment and the surrounding tooth structure clearly. This precision supports safe removal or bypassing of the file while preserving healthy tooth. At Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi, broken instrument retrieval is always performed under the microscope.
Broken instrument retrieval may be completed in one visit or may need more, depending on where the fragment sits, the canal shape, and whether further root canal treatment is required. Difficult positions can take additional time. Dr. Adnan Alafandi at Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi will explain the expected number of appointments after assessment.
Broken instrument retrieval can take from 30 minutes to well over an hour, depending on the position of the fragment and the complexity of the canal. Careful work under the microscope may extend the appointment. At Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi, timing is tailored to your case after assessment by the specialist endodontist.
The cost of broken instrument retrieval depends on the position of the fragment, the difficulty of access, and any further root canal treatment needed. We do not publish fixed prices, as each case differs. Insurance may contribute to part of the cost. Book a consultation at Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi for a personalised estimate.
Broken instrument retrieval may be covered by dental insurance, though coverage depends on your plan and the treatment involved. Lilac Medical Centre works with several insurers, including Daman, Thiqa, AXA, and Cigna. We advise confirming your specific benefits and any co-payment with your insurer beforehand. Our Abu Dhabi team can help you check your eligibility.
After broken instrument retrieval, take any prescribed pain relief and avoid chewing on the tooth until it is fully treated and restored. Keep the area clean with gentle brushing and flossing. Contact Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi if pain or swelling increases. Attend your follow-up so the tooth can be assessed and the root canal completed as advised.
Yes, a tooth can often be saved after an instrument breaks inside it, especially when the fragment is retrieved or safely bypassed under a microscope so the canal can be cleaned and sealed. Success depends on the position and the tooth. Dr. Adnan Alafandi at Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi will assess whether your tooth can be preserved.
If a fractured file cannot be retrieved or safely bypassed, alternatives include leaving it in place if it is not causing problems, surgical treatment, or extraction of the tooth. Retrieval under the microscope aims to save the natural tooth where possible. Your specialist endodontist at Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi will discuss the options for your case.
Broken instrument retrieval is a safe procedure with a high success rate when carried out under a microscope by a specialist. Outcomes depend on the position of the fragment, the canal shape, and the tooth. Risks are discussed beforehand. At Lilac Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi, Dr. Adnan Alafandi, Specialist Endodontist, performs this careful, precise work.
To book broken instrument retrieval, call Lilac Medical Centre on 800 999 000 or visit 3rd Floor, C2 Tower, Marsa Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi. We are open Saturday to Thursday from 09:00 to 20:00 and closed on Friday. Rated 4.9 stars from over 500 reviews, Dr. Adnan Alafandi, Specialist Endodontist, will assess your tooth.

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