The mystery surrounding rapper Lil Wayne's missed court date has been unraveled - he had to visit the dentist.

The star was due to appear in front of a judge in Yuma County, Arizona on Monday as part of his ongoing legal battle against charges of drug possession. However, Lil Wayne - real name Dwayne Carter Jr. - failed to appear, citing treatment for a medical condition for his absence. It has now emerged Carter is recovering from several root-canal operations.

His attorney James Tilson says, "As a result, the court waived his appearance for that hearing. He still must appear at future hearings." Carter Jr. was arrested in January after police officers allegedly discovered a stash of illegal drugs on his tour bus. The Lollipop hit-maker pleaded not guilty to weapons and drug charges in May.

He is due back in court in Arizona in October.

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(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)