Does Your Tooth Decay Need Filling or a Root Canal?

Most people, especially those in their mid-twenties and above, rarely give attention to their oral health. In most scenarios, it is pure negligence until a toothache or any other dental-related complications set in. Perhaps the only good thing about having oral complications such as tooth decay is that root canal specialists will always receive you with open arms. There is a treatment option for every tooth problem, and that of tooth decay is filling or a root canal, depending on the depth of your tooth rot.

Understanding the Difference Between Root Canal and Filling 

When an endodontist or dentist recommends a tooth filling, it simply means that your decay hasn't spread to the tooth's pulp. The cavity or decay is small and easily manageable by filling. During the process, the dentist removes the decay using special instruments. They then top up the space with filling material. 

Even small cavities caused by tooth accidents are managed by fillings. There are several types of fillings, including Amalgam, Ceramics, and Composite Resin. Your affordability determines the type you get. Expect the normal functioning of your tooth to resume once a filling has been perfectly done.

A root canal, on the other hand, is recommended if your tooth infection goes all the way down to the tooth's pulp. The treatment process of a root canal involves infection removal, clean-up, filling, and sealing up of the space. Administering anesthesia to the infected tooth relaxes the patient and makes the procedure painless. 

Note that root canal decay victims become restless until a root canal is performed. An infection needing root canal treatment calls for an emergency dentist appointment because the rot can spread to other body parts, causing further health complications. You should not panic if your endodontist recommends root canal treatment because you are among the millions who receive such treatment each year in the US. Look at it as the only way to salvage and restore your tooth. It is a procedure that requires one or two appointments to accomplish.

Signs of Root Canal Infection

The most common and obvious indications that your tooth decay is ripe for a root canal procedure include the following:

Agonizing Pain 

If you find yourself going through unbearable pain episodes because of a tooth infection, you may require root canal treatment. Even if the pain goes away for some time, you still need urgent treatment to prevent severe inflammation.

 Hot and Cold Food or Drinks Sensitivity 

Can't drink or eat your favorite meals in peace because of tooth sensitivity? There is a chance that tooth decay or injury has affected your root canal.  

Swollen or Lumpy Gums

Gum swelling is another sign that a root canal infection is already in existence. The gum may or may not be painful. Furthermore, an abscess can form due to swelling, resulting in bad breath.

Chipped Teeth

A chipped tooth could be a sign of a severely infected tooth that is almost dead due to decay. Alternatively, the impact of an accident causing chipped teeth can affect the root canal. Either way, root canal treatment is necessary. 

Other tell-tale signs of a root canal infection include dark gums and loose teeth.

Root Canal Treatment Aftercare

Slight discomfort is often experienced for a few days following a root canal procedure. If the pain or discomfort persists for a week or so, head back to your endodontist for a checkup. In some cases, crown placement is advisable since it protects your teeth during chewing as it recuperates. 

Additionally, avoid hot drinks, hard foods, and any other rigorous mouth activity that may interfere with the healing of your tooth. More importantly, only resume eating after the procedure's numbness wears off to avoid biting your tongue. Likewise, brushing teeth frequently isn't recommended after a root canal procedure. 

Prioritize Your Dental Health by Booking an Appointment Today

Do not let tooth decay steal your joy when you can easily schedule an appointment for a specialized tooth decay treatment. Contact us today by calling (704) 327-3258 and kick-start a dental healing journey with us. We care about your oral health and will ensure you get the best services within the Charlotte metropolitan area.