Report Forgetful Dentist Leaves Needle in Patient's Gum for 15 Years

[snoop1130]

Rungnapha worked as an assistant to nurses at a hospital in Buriram. | Photo via Facebook/ Rungnapa Thaingyotha

 

In a tale blending mystery and medicine, a dentist's oversight in Buriram, Isaan province, has astonished both medical professionals and the public. Rungnapha Thaingyotha, a 49-year-old woman, recently discovered a needle embedded in her gum, a relic of dental treatment conducted 15 years ago. The curious incident initially caused alarm due to suspicions of black magic before the truth came to light.

 

Rungnapha took to Facebook to recount her startling discovery. Experiencing persistent gum pain near her lower left molar, she sought treatment, leading to an unexpected revelation. An X-ray performed by a medical team at the hospital where she works identified a steel object lodged in her gum. She underwent surgery to have it removed and shared her unusual experience online, quickly attracting the attention of Thai netizens.

 

Many speculated wildly about the nature of the object, with some suggesting it might have been a fishing tool inadvertently consumed and embedded while eating. However, Rungnapha confirmed this was improbable, given how deeply the object was aligned with her tooth root. The piece was identified as approximately 3 centimetres long, curved, with one end fashioned like a needle.

 

The bizarre nature of the object fuelled speculation about black magic. Though Rungnapha herself was skeptical of such claims, the idea caught fire among social media users, despite her assertion of having no enemies or personal disputes that might cause such a supernatural attack.

 

In search of answers, Channel 7 enlisted insight from Wicharn Dhammachoto, the abbot of Phutthabucha Pa Khok Prasat Temple in Buriram. While acknowledging the oddity of the discovery, the monk expressed doubt about its connection to black magic. He clarified that traditional black magic remnants usually consist of nails, hair, or animal skin, unlike modern items such as needles.

 

As the mystery deepened, Rungnapha recollected a dental visit from 15 years prior at a local clinic where she had a tooth extraction. This realization was corroborated by medical experts at her hospital who identified the object as a needle typically used in dental surgery for sealing wounds. The likely explanation: the dentist had inadvertently left the needle embedded during her previous oral procedure.

 

Despite wishing to hold the errant dentist accountable, Rungnapha faces practical obstacles due to her relocation to another province for work. Fortunately, since the needle's removal, she has experienced no adverse effects or complications.

 

This situation highlights a rare but concerning oversight in dental practice, underscoring the need for thoroughness in dental care and follow-ups. Meanwhile, Rungnapha’s story, though initially shrouded in mystery and folklore, concludes with clarity and a gentle reminder of the importance of professional vigilance in healthcare.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-05

 

 

[impulse]

You'd figure that would show up on a dental x-ray.

 

[blaze master]

9 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

 

The bizarre nature of the object fuelled speculation about black magic.

 

 

Stop it. I notice when I have a piece of food stuck in my teeth.