Decay under existing filling

[kaydawg]

Concerned about the second molar. This x-ray was taken 5 days ago. Am I correct in saying there's a large area of decay underneath the existing filling (left side of tooth)? If so, will it be possible to refill or would it be too big? Can't get an appointment for 4 weeks...

 

[kaydawg]

It does hurt but I don't know if that's the gum or the tooth. Does it look like it's hit the pulp?

 

[Dr M]

Does not look like it is into the pulp on this x-ray. If that is the case, it can be refilled

 

[kaydawg]

Does not look like it is into the pulp on this x-ray. If that is the case, it can be refilled

Supposedly its near the pulp. It is sore and I'm experiencing referred pain in my ear. Doesn't yet hurt on the tap-test or cold-test. Will it be ok to leave for 2 weeks?

 

[Dr M]

Then it sounds like irreversible pulpitis already. This is an indication for a root canal. If you can manage the symptoms with some anti inflammatory medicine, which you can buy over the counter, then it should be fine to wait. If the pain becomes more severe, and you can't see your dentist yet, you can contact your medical GP for some antibiotics, to prevent abscess formation.

 

[kaydawg]

Then it sounds like irreversible pulpitis already. This is an indication for a root canal. If you can manage the symptoms with some anti inflammatory medicine, which you can buy over the counter, then it should be fine to wait. If the pain becomes more severe, and you can't see your dentist yet, you can contact your medical GP for some antibiotics, to prevent abscess formation.

Yes, got it checked and the dentist confirmed it needs root canalling. She expressed surprise that the decay moved so fast in a week. Can I ask; does the decay on the first molar look as deep as the second molar, or should that one be ok with just a filling for now?

 

[Dr M]

It looks like a normal filling for now, but a lot of times, when opening up the tooth, it can be worse than it appears on an x-ray. I would recommend having it fixed as soon as possible as well.