Filling vs. root canal therapy: what's the difference, really?
Is it just a cavity—or something more serious? In this blog post, we’ll help you understand when root canal therapy might be necessary and how to spot the signs of a deeper problem. It can be tough to tell the difference between a minor dental issue and a more serious concern, but with Dr. Nieves and our team at Granbury Endodontics by your side, you’ll have expert guidance to recognize the signs of an infected tooth.
Fillings vs root canal therapy—what’s the difference?
You’ve likely heard of both treatments, but what exactly separates a filling from root canal therapy? These dental procedures both aim to restore your tooth to health, but the situations they address and the methods they use are quite different.
What are fillings?
A filling is one of the most common restorative dental procedures. It’s used to repair minor damage to the surface of a tooth, typically caused by decay (a cavity). When caught early, cavities don’t progress beyond the outer shell (the enamel) and a filling can seal the damaged area, preventing further decay.
How fillings work
Your dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth.
The cleaned area is filled with either composite resin or amalgam.
The filling restores the tooth’s shape and function, protecting it from additional harm.
Fillings are quick, relatively simple and often completed in a single visit.
What is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy, on the other hand, is more complex and addresses damage that extends deeper into the tooth. When decay or injury reaches the pulp—the soft inner core containing nerves and blood vessels—root canal therapy is often the answer. This treatment removes the infected or inflamed pulp, cleans the interior of the tooth and seals it to prevent future problems.
How root canal therapy works
The infected or damaged pulp is removed.
The inside of the tooth is cleaned and shaped.
The root canal is sealed with a filling or crown to protect it.
While this may sound intimidating, modern root canal therapy is designed to be as comfortable as possible, especially when handled by a board-certified endodontic specialist.
Filling vs root canal
Choosing between a filling and a root canal depends on the extent of the damage. While fillings are suitable for surface-level decay, root canal therapy is the answer for deeper infections that threaten the tooth’s health and longevity.
Signs of an infected tooth
Not all toothaches mean you need root canal therapy, but some symptoms indicate a problem that goes beyond a simple cavity. Being aware of the signs of an infected tooth can help you take action before the damage worsens.
Common symptoms of a tooth infection
Persistent pain: Long-lasting or intense tooth pain can be a red flag. If it worsens when you chew or bite, it’s likely a sign of deeper decay or infection.
Sensitivity: While some sensitivity to hot or cold foods is normal, a lingering or consistent sensitivity may indicate an issue in the pulp.
Swelling or redness: Swollen gums near the affected tooth can signal an infection. You may even notice an abscess forming, a small pocket of pus caused by bacteria.
Discoloration: When a tooth turns grayish or darker than the surrounding teeth, it could be due to a dying pulp.
Foul taste or odor: A bad taste that won’t go away or persistent bad breath might be caused by an infection draining from the tooth.
Why early detection matters
Catching these symptoms early can preserve your natural tooth and prevent the infection from spreading. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, ask yourself, Do I need a root canal?, and get in touch with an endodontist right away.
When to seek professional advice
If you’re still unsure whether you need a root canal treatment or a filling, visiting your dentist or an endodontist can provide clarity. They’ll perform a thorough examination, which often includes X-rays, to identify the root of the issue and recommend the best treatment.
Here’s when it’s time to schedule an appointment with an endodontist like Dr. Nieves:
You’re experiencing the symptoms mentioned above.
Your toothache is getting worse instead of better.
A cavity you were planning to address has been left untreated for too long.
Why a board-certified endodontist is your best choice for root canal therapy
If root canal therapy is necessary, seeing a board-certified endodontist like Dr. Nieves increases your chances of a successful treatment. These specialists receive years of additional training in diagnosing and treating tooth pain, infections and complex cases. Their precision and expertise lead to higher treatment success rates, so you can feel confident you’re in skilled hands.
Choosing Granbury Endodontics for expert care
Concerned that your tooth pain might be more than just a cavity? At Granbury Endodontics, we’re here to help you find answers—and relief. From advanced diagnostics to compassionate care, our experienced team ensures your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible. And, we help patients from all over, so even if you live in Stephenville, Glen Rose or Brownwood, we can get you in for an appointment pretty quickly.
Why choose Granbury Endodontics?
Expertise you can trust: With our focus on endodontics, we’re experts in root canal therapy and treating infected teeth.
State-of-the-art technology: Our advanced imaging tools and endodontic technology provide detailed insights to guide your treatment.
Patient-centered approach: We put your comfort and care first, ensuring you feel informed and supported every step of the way.
Take the next step toward relief
If you’ve been wondering whether you need a filling or root canal therapy, don’t leave your dental health to chance. Early intervention can make all the difference in saving your natural tooth and avoiding further discomfort.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience expert care for your smile. Whether you’re dealing with an infected tooth or wondering if you need a root canal treatment?, our team is here to provide the answers—and the relief—you need.