Reviewed by Dr Kathryn Stanley
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Reading Time: Five Minutes
If your child recently had a tooth pulled and is now saying something feels “poky” or sharp in their mouth, you’re not alone — this can happen during the healing process. In many cases, it’s caused by a small fragment of bone known as a bone spicule.
While they’re usually nothing to worry about, bone spicules can feel strange or even uncomfortable for kids.
In this blog, we explain what bone spicules are, how to support your child’s healing, and when to reach out for help.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Bone spicules are a common and typically harmless part of the healing process after a tooth extraction. With gentle care at home and support from your pediatric dentist, most resolve on their own, but we are always here if your child needs a little extra help.
What Are Bone Spicules?
A bone spicule is a small, sharp fragment of bone that may surface through the gum tissue following a tooth extraction. These pieces are usually leftover bone tissue that didn’t fully break down during the healing process.
Bone spicules may feel like a sharp bump or tiny splinter poking through the gums. They are more common in cases where the bone had to be reshaped during a surgical procedure, such as wisdom tooth extraction.
Are Bone Spicules Normal?
Yes, in most cases, bone spicules after tooth extraction are a natural part of healing. As the body works to close the extraction site, it may push out small fragments of bone that were not fully absorbed.
The formation of bone spicules can happen for a few different reasons:
- Natural bone remodeling: After a tooth is removed, the surrounding bone reshapes and heals. Sometimes, small fragments are pushed to the surface in the process.
- Leftover bone debris: A tiny bone piece or chip may be left behind during the extraction and later work its way out.
- Surgical trauma: If the surrounding bone was disturbed during the extraction, some of it may splinter and form spicules during healing.
- Tooth eruption changes: In some children, normal tooth eruption or development may lead to bone fragments coming to the surface.
- Inflammation or infection: A post-extraction infection or inflammation could disrupt normal healing and lead to bone fragment exposure.
- Delayed or compromised healing: Poor oral hygiene or underlying medical conditions may interfere with the natural healing process, increasing the risk of spicules.
Think of it as the mouth’s way of “cleaning house” as the area recovers.
Common Symptoms of Bone Spicules
Bone spicules are usually easy to spot or feel. Here are a few things to watch for:
- A sharp or rough edge under the gums
- Mild irritation or soreness in the extraction area
- A piece of bone or bone chip visible at the gumline
- Occasional pain if the spicule is poking into soft tissue
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, especially pain that isn’t improving, it’s a good idea to give us a call.
What Happens When a Bone Spicule Needs to Be Removed
If a bone spicule is causing discomfort or not coming out on its own, we may recommend removing it.
In some cases, the spicule can be gently lifted out using a special dental tool. Other times, especially if the spicule is embedded deeper in the gum tissue, a minor surgical procedure may be needed to fully remove it.
The goal is always to relieve your child’s discomfort while protecting the surrounding tissue and supporting proper healing. We will explain the best approach for your child’s unique situation and make sure they are as comfortable as possible throughout the process.
When to Contact Us
If your child had their extraction performed at our office, we are happy to evaluate any concerns, including bone spicules.
However, if the extraction was done by an oral surgeon or another provider, it’s best to follow up with them directly. They will be most familiar with the specifics of the procedure and the expected healing process.
If your child experiences any of the following, please reach out to our office or to your oral surgeon:
- Pain that isn’t improving with over-the-counter pain relievers
- Signs of swelling or infection (such as pus or fever)
- Difficulty eating or brushing due to the bone piece
- You can clearly see a bone fragment and it hasn’t come out on its own after a few days
How to Support the Healing Process
Most bone spurs or spicules will come out on their own. Here’s how you can support the natural healing process at home:
- Keep up with oral hygiene: Gently brush and rinse as directed to prevent a risk of infection.
- Avoid crunchy foods: Chips and other hard foods can irritate healing areas or dislodge sharp bone fragments.
- Use OTC pain medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with discomfort.
- Avoid touching or picking: It may be tempting, but disturbing the area can slow healing.
Partner With a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS
At Stanley Pediatric Dentistry in Overland Park, we are here to help you navigate every step of your child’s healing process. From routine tooth extractions to unexpected bumps in the road like bone spicules, we are committed to protecting your child’s comfort and long-term oral health.
If you have concerns after an extraction, don’t hesitate to call our team. We are here to help your child heal comfortably and confidently.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Overland Park, KS, call (913) 345-0331 or visit us at 8575 W 110th St Suite 310, Overland Park, KS.
FAQ: Bone Spicules After Tooth Extraction
Will bone spicules go away?
Yes, most bone spicules will work their way out naturally as the gums heal. Your child may spit it out or find that it disappears on its own. If it’s lingering or causing discomfort, we can help remove it quickly and gently.
Are bone spicules harmful?
Bone spicules themselves are not dangerous, but they can be uncomfortable, especially if they irritate surrounding tissue or interfere with eating or brushing. If your child is in pain or the area looks red or swollen, it’s a good idea to have it evaluated. In some cases, a spicule may need to be professionally removed to prevent further irritation or infection.
What happens if a piece of tooth is left after extraction?
Sometimes, a small bone piece or tooth fragment may be missed during an extraction. If it doesn’t resolve on its own, it may need to be removed to ensure proper healing and prevent irritation to the soft tissues. This is usually a simple follow-up dental procedure.
