Building Confidence One Smile at a Time.
Failing Molar Fillings with Recurrent Decay – Clinical Case Analysis
Severity:
Teeth Problems:
Teeth Case Analysis (Based on Photo)
Visual Findings (Zoom 100%)
From the provided image, the lower posterior teeth show:
1. Multiple failing restorations
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Old amalgam fillings with breakdown and marginal leakage
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Visible dark gaps suggesting secondary caries
2. Deep cavitated lesion
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The middle molar shows a large open cavity with food debris
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Likely dentin involvement → possible pulp irritation
3. Gingival inflammation
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Localized swelling and redness near the cavitated tooth
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Possible food impaction + plaque retention
4. Fractured tooth structure
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Loss of enamel walls around restoration
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Tooth integrity compromised
Possible Diagnosis (Clinical Correlation Needed)
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Recurrent dental caries under old fillings
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Fractured restoration with food trap
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Pulpitis risk (reversible or irreversible)
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Localized gingivitis / early periodontal pocket
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Possible need for endodontic assessment
Recommended Treatment Process
Step 1 – Diagnostic Phase (Day 1–2)
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Periapical X-ray or bitewing
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Pulp vitality testing
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Periodontal probing
Step 2 – Initial Treatment (Day 2–5)
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Removal of failing restorations
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Caries excavation
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Temporary filling if pulp close
Step 3 – Definitive Treatment (Day 5–14)
Depending on pulp status:
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Large composite/onlay if pulp healthy
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Root canal treatment + crown if pulp infected
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Extraction + implant/bridge if non-restorable
Healing Timeline
If only deep filling:
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Sensitivity settles in 3–7 days
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Gum healing 5–10 days
If root canal:
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Pain relief within 48–72 hours
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Full tissue stabilization 7–14 days
If extraction:
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Soft tissue healing 7–14 days
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Bone healing 6–12 weeks
Risk If Delayed Beyond 14 Days
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Pulp necrosis → severe infection
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Abscess formation
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Facial swelling
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Bone loss around tooth
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Possible tooth fracture to gum level (non-restorable)
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Spread of infection requiring antibiotics or emergency care
Clinical Comments
This case shows high risk of pulp involvement due to:
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Large recurrent decay
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Food impaction
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Structural weakness of molar
Early intervention greatly improves tooth survival.
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