If there was ever a reason you would jump to call your dentist, it is a toothache. There is no denying just how much they can hurt and disrupt your daily life. And while there are many things that could be causing your pain, most toothaches are the result of decay or damage due to trauma.
Good news! A trip to the dentist or endodontist can provide relief right away—usually with either a filling or a root canal. Both of these treatments effectively restore a damaged tooth, but they are used in different scenarios. Let’s take a closer look at each so that you can be more informed and more confident about your dental care next time you find yourself dealing with an ailing tooth.
When is a Filling the Best Choice?
A dental filling is, perhaps, one of the most common restorative treatments in dentistry. They are used to save a tooth with mild to moderate decay or damage that has not yet reached the inner areas of the tooth.
During the procedure, the decay, if present, is removed, and it is replaced with a tooth-colored material that seals off any openings to protect against future issues. The tooth is restored in both function and appearance.
So, when is a filling the ideal treatment? The tooth structure must still be strong without any infection reaching the nerve. The cavity itself will be small or moderate with mild sensitivity. Seeing your dentist for a filling can often rectify the situation in just one visit.
When is a Root Canal the Best Choice?
If decay is left to spread or significant damage to a tooth occurs, the pulp (inside) of the tooth can be at risk. This is where the tooth’s nerve and blood vessels reside. At this stage, a filling will no longer be effective—a root canal will be necessary.
When the inner area of the tooth is disrupted, the pulp can become inflamed or infected. In addition to throbbing tooth pain, it can also lead to other symptoms, such as sensitivity to heat, swelling, or a pimple-type bump on the gum surrounding it.
Root canal treatment should be performed by a skilled endodontist, not your general dentist.
The procedure itself is quite routine, but very intricate. It involves removing the pulp, then cleaning and disinfecting the tiny canals. They are filled with a durable biocompatible filling material that will restore their strength and function. The tooth is then sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering.
A root canal can alleviate tooth pain immediately. And, with the help of a dental crown, its integrity and full functionality will be restored. It is a great way to save a natural tooth.
The Importance of Timely Treatment
Whether you need a filling or a root canal, an ailing tooth can get worse if not addressed.
An injury due to trauma can leave openings for bacteria to enter and wreak havoc from the inside. Decay and infection can spread further inside the tooth—and to those around it. If the infection is too bad, it can spread into the bloodstream and become a serious medical emergency.
What may start as a simple cavity can quickly develop into something much more complex and dangerous. The sooner you seek treatment, the better the outcome. And, the faster you will feel better, too.
Frequently Asked Questions
How painful is a root canal?
Root canals today are not painful, thanks to advanced techniques and local anesthesia. Most patients will feel immediate relief after the procedure since the source of their pain is removed.
Can a tooth with a filling still need a root canal?
Yes, it is possible that a tooth with a filling could need a root canal if decay develops under or around the restoration—or if the pulp is inflamed due to trauma. Root canals can remove infection while preserving the natural tooth.
At Towson Endodontics, we are committed to providing our patients with expert care that surpasses expectations. We work closely with your primary dentist to create a successful treatment plan designed just for you — when you need it most. If you are in pain or require a root canal, we are here for you. Contact us today.
