What’s Better for a Tooth Cavity? A Dental Filling or a Root Canal?
When patients have cavities the surface of the tooth is permanently damaged, and tiny holes develop. They can be caused by bacteria, the food you eat or drink, and poor oral hygiene. The severity of the decay, and the condition of the tooth will determine what course of treatment is best. At Boutique for Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide many services for our patients, and your health is our first priority.
Our friendly team will always try and save your tooth, and clear away any infection. Many patients enter our dental office in Sandy Springs, GA with symptoms that something is wrong, but in some cases cavities are found during our normal dental exams.
If you have extensive decay, and the infection has reached the pulp area of the tooth, a root canal may be needed. Both fillings and root canals are great ways to save teeth, and prevent further decay or infection. We always choose the best treatment option depending on the condition of the tooth.
When is a Tooth Filling Needed?
Tooth fillings are used for smaller cavities that have not reached the pulp of the tooth. Fractured teeth that are not infected can also be saved using a filling. The area of decay is cleaned out, and then filled with a tooth-colored composite material. This material keeps the tooth intact, and helps to prevent further issues with the tooth in the future.
What Are Some Symptoms That Indicate I May Need a Dental Filling?
Here are some symptoms and signs that may indicate that you may need to get a dental filling in Sandy Springs, GA:
- Sharp or throbbing pain in or around a tooth
- Your tooth is changing color, or spots can be seen on the surface of the tooth
- You experience pain while chewing or biting
- Your tooth is cracked or injured
- You have a cracked or missing filling
When is a Root Canal Needed?
Root canals may be needed if they area of decay is severe, and the infection has reached the pulp area of the tooth. If a tooth is injured or cracked, and has been left untreated, the tooth may have an infection and need root canal therapy. With root canal therapy the infected pulp area is cleaned out and sealed to restore the tooth. If needed, a dental crown may be used to fully restore the tooth’s functionality.
When is a Root Canal Needed?
Root canals may be needed if they area of decay is severe, and the infection has reached the pulp area of the tooth. If a tooth is injured or cracked, and has been left untreated, the tooth may have an infection and need root canal therapy. With root canal therapy the infected pulp area is cleaned out and sealed to restore the tooth. If needed, a dental crown may be used to fully restore the tooth’s functionality.
What Are Some Symptoms That Indicate I May Need a Root Canal?
Here are some symptoms and signs that may indicate that you may need to get a root canal in Sandy Springs, GA:
- You experience severe tooth pain
- Gums are tender and swollen around the tooth
- Extreme sensitivity to hot and cold
- Chewing or putting pressure on the tooth causes severe pain
- The tooth has changed color
- A bump has appeared on the gum area around the tooth
Looking for Root Canals and Dental Fillings Near You?
Choosing the best option is important, and our team at Boutique for Cosmetic Dentistry here to help give you all of the options available to achieve that bright white smile. We welcome all patients, and strive to always provide quality service our patients can count on.
If you are interested in finding out more about root canals or dental implants, please contact Dr. Patel and Dr. Amara’s friendly dental team to schedule your next consultation!