What does my RCT X-ray reveal about my tooth infection?

Question

Hello doctor,

Two months ago, I had a root canal done on a lower molar by a general dentist. I have put off getting a crown on it for now to evaluate its healing. Last week, I noticed hot food causes a sensitive feeling coming from that area, whereas the week before, I had pain in my jaw area.

I am not sure if it was caused by the wisdom tooth, root canal, or me grinding my teeth at night, as they are all on the same side. I have X-rays of when the root canal was done and the more recent one that was taken after.

I am not sure if the infection is still visible from the X-ray. Do I need another re-root treatment?

Any thoughts on the X-ray? I have noticed that the darkness around that tooth is still visible. Does that mean the infection is still present?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen the files and gone through them (attachment removed to protect patient identity). The two mesial roots are not properly filled to the tip, but there does not seem to be any infection at the apex.

I suggest you wait for a few more weeks. Are the sensitivity and pain directly below the root canal-treated tooth? It seems you have an infection in the wisdom tooth, too, which has to be surgically removed first.

After removing it, if the pain still occurs, get one more X-ray done.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

This X-ray clearly shows infection along the mesial root of the root canal treated tooth and also some infection of the wisdom tooth. You should definitely get the mesial roots re-treated.