Does it look like stain or decay

[kaydawg]

This is my wisdom tooth (UR8). Its at a really awkward angle and is difficult to see or brush. When I do maneuver a toothbrush in there it makes the gum bleed and leaves it sore for a few days after.

I had a scale + polish about 7 weeks ago and it did improve its appearance but apparently couldn't get all staining off.

The far cusp looks brown/black. Sore but difficult to tell if cause is gum or tooth.

Bitewing x-rays don't get a full picture of the tooth but you can see the mesial edge.

Would you say its staining or decay?

 

[Dr M]

It might be decay. Would need normal peri-apical x-ray instead of a bitewing in order to confirm. Or you can try and take a panoramic x-ray as well

 

[kaydawg]

It might be decay. Would need normal peri-apical x-ray instead of a bitewing in order to confirm. Or you can try and take a panoramic x-ray as well

Does it look severe or does it look like a mix of the two (staining & decay)? Like how urgent, do I need to ring up and ask for an emergency appt?

 

[Dr M]

If you don't have pain, then I would not phone for an emergency appointment. I would still try and get a better image of the tooth. It is impossible to say if it is only staining or a mix of staining and decay without better imaging.