Does the upper third molar need root canal treatment?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query.

I have gone through the radiographs (attachments removed to protect patient identity). The X-rays are not clear. Can you please send the X-ray involving the concerned tooth?

The cavity seems deep and possibly involves the pulp horn (projecting or pin-point radiolucent area, which is an extension of the pulp). You might not have pain now, as it could be chronic pulpitis (pulp inflammation for long periods). Acute exacerbation, or when your immunity gets compromised, might cause pain in such cases.

Secondly, they have taken just a bitewing X-ray. I suggest you get a periapical radiograph so that we can also notice changes in the root and around the apex of the root and go for temporary filling or root canal treatment based on a clear radiograph only. Anyways, X-ray is two dimensional, so if the cavity seems to be just approximating or almost near to pulp after excavation of caries if the canal is not exposed, we can go for temporary filling for a month.

We can go for permanent filling later if you have no symptoms in that period. Otherwise, it is advisable for root canal treatment only.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.