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Severe Pain in Molar Adjacent to Implant
Hi Doctor,
I would appreciate it if you could review the attached X-ray and let me know if there is any issue with the molar adjacent to my dental implant.
About a year ago, after completing my braces treatment, I received a dental implant. At the same time, a root canal treatment (RCT) was performed on the molar next to the implant.
Lately, I have been experiencing severe pain in the RCT-treated molar, especially when I touch it or close my mouth. I’m concerned and would be grateful for your expert advice on the matter.
Thank you in advance!
Answers (6)
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Hello,
Thank you for sharing the X-ray and detailed history.
From the image, it appears that your root canal treated molar (adjacent to the implant) is showing signs of periapical radiolucency â a dark area around the root tip, indicating persistent or recurrent infection at the apex of the root.
What This Means:
Despite the RCT, the infection may not have completely resolved or could have reappeared.
Your symptoms of pain on touch or bite correlate with this finding.
The adjacent implant appears well-integrated radiographically, but prolonged infection nearby could risk its long-term health too.
Next Steps
Consult an endodontist (RCT specialist) for evaluation. A CBCT scan (3D imaging) may be recommended to assess the extent of infection. Re-root canal treatment (Re-RCT) is likely the best option to save the tooth. If retreatment fails or is not feasible, apicoectomy (minor surgery to remove root tip infection) might be suggested.
Health Tips
â ï¸ Word of Caution: Do not delay treatment. Long-standing infection can lead to bone loss or compromise your adjacent implant. Overuse of painkillers without treatment can mask the problem but won't cure it. âï¸ Health Tips: Avoid chewing from the affected side. Continue maintaining excellent oral hygiene, especially around the implant and RCT tooth. Stay hydrated and follow up regularly with your dental care provider.
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Hello
There is an infection in the tooth
It would be better if you can get a treatment done
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Hello
Can see infection with root canal treated tooth
The tooth requires retreatment.
Also can see infection with the implant too
Kindly visit your nearest dentist for further examination
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As per the radiograph you shared, there is a significant periapical radiolucency associated with the root canal treated tooth, indicating the presence of an infection. I would recommend undergoing a re-root canal treatment (Re-RCT) if you wish to preserve the tooth. However, please note that the success rate of a re-treatment is generally lower compared to a freshly performed root canal.
It is advisable to address this promptly to prevent any risk of retrograde infection affecting the adjacent implant.
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Dr. Madiha
Dentist
2 yrs exp
Noida
Hello! Based on your X-ray, there appears to be a possible infection or unresolved issue in the RCT-treated molar adjacent to the implant. This could be causing the pain. I recommend getting a CBCT scan for better diagnosis and visiting your endodontist for a clinical evaluation. Retreatment or apical surgery might be needed!
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Dr. Pia Patel
Dentist
14 yrs exp
Chennai
Hi,
You need to re-treat the Root canal treated tooth.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.