Sir, the case report involving concrescence of the mandibular molars (BDJ 2006; 200: 141–142) was of some concern. The patient is reported as having several episodes of pain from the lower right third molar region. There is no mention of treatment of the grossly carious second molar in this quadrant prior to being listed for a significant surgical procedure.

Dr Kaan Gunduz, the author of the case report, responds: A clinical diagnosis of pulpitis of the second lower right molar tooth caused by caries was made. The patient was anaesthetised with local anaesthetic, and the teeth were isolated with rubber dam. A pulpotomy was performed. Also, the caries on the first lower right molar was excavated without evidence of pulp exposure and restorated with amalgam.