How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal or a Filling?

If you’ve ever experienced inexplicable tooth pain and wondered, “How do I know if I need a root canal or a filling?” you’re in good company. The ultimate treatment will come down to the severity of your condition and the damage already caused by bacteria and plaque buildup, so determining the outcome on your own can be tricky. 

Today, we’re discussing the symptomatic differences that may indicate whether you need a simple filling or a root canal and permanent crown. 

Signs you might need a root canal

A root canal procedure can have many causes, from advanced decay and gum disease to dental trauma, such as a cracked tooth. In any case, the goal of this surgery is to eliminate bacteria and inflammation from the tooth pulp. Here are some of the symptoms that may suggest you need a root canal instead of a filling: 

Severe, persistent tooth pain

While a simple cavity may cause occasional discomfort, a constant throbbing pain may indicate inflammation or infection of the tooth pulp, the tissue deep inside of teeth containing blood vessels and nerves. 

Sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks

In addition to a dull, persistent discomfort, you may experience a jolt of pain when eating and drinking hot or cold foods and beverages. This occurs when those sensitive nerve endings are exposed to drastic temperature changes. 

Swollen or tender gums

Many people assume that their swollen gums are caused by gingivitis or poor oral hygiene, but this is often a sign of a more urgent issue. If left untreated, an infection of the tooth pulp can spread to the surrounding tissue, leading to swelling, tenderness, and even abscesses in the gums, sometimes requiring an emergency appointment with a dentist or endodontic specialist. 

Loose tooth

Adult teeth shouldn’t wiggle, so any movement in your mouth should be taken seriously. This can occur when an existing infection has weakened the jawbone and the ligaments holding the tooth in place.

The sensation may be subtle like a slight shift when biting down, but don’t delay treatment. Even with immediate dental care, an extraction may be required to prevent further damage to the jaw and surrounding teeth. 

Tooth discoloration

When tooth pulp begins to die, the blood supply is lost, and the tooth turns gray, brown, or black. If you notice that one tooth is darker than the others despite adequate oral hygiene, you may need to visit your dentist for a root canal to eliminate dead tissue and restore your tooth’s natural color.

Related: What Does a Cavity Feel Like?

Signs you might need a dental filling

Before infection and inflammation reach your tooth pulp, your body may send early warning signs that trouble is brewing. Let’s explore some of the symptoms of cavities that only require fillings instead of root canals:

Mild to moderate tooth pain

As tooth decay eats away at your enamel, you may experience temporary discomfort while chewing or biting down.

Since the sensation doesn’t last long or send a shockwave through your body, it can be easy to ignore. However, this is the best time to take action. By addressing the issue early and filling the cavity, you can avoid more invasive root canal treatments. 

Sensitivity to sweet foods or drinks

Another early sign of tooth decay is feeling a quick twinge when consuming sugary candy, soda, or dessert. The bacteria that cause cavities feed on sugar, so snacking on sweet treats gives them plenty of fuel to speed up the demineralization process. 

Small area of tooth decay

Once those harmful bacteria have progressed beyond plaque build-up and demineralization, they begin eating away at your enamel. Although you may need a filling at this stage, it will be much more comfortable and affordable than a root canal. 

Visible cavity or hole

You may see a dark spot, pit, or tiny hole where the cavity has eroded your enamel, especially in the grooves of molars. But don’t be alarmed! A visible cavity may indicate that the decay is localized and all you need is a filling, not a root canal.

Related: What Are the Stages of Periodontal Disease?

How will the dentist check which procedure you need?

Along with extensive medical knowledge and hands-on experience, dentists use a number of diagnostic tools that take the guesswork out of treatment. Let’s walk through the steps your dentist will take to determine whether you need a root canal or a filling: 

Consultation

To properly diagnose your condition, your dentist will ask a series of questions to learn about your pain levels, when you experience discomfort, and exactly what it feels like. Hearing your description will help them narrow down the possibilities and develop an appropriate treatment plan. 

Dental exam

Next, they will examine your teeth, checking for discoloration, visible holes, and gum abnormalities. At this point, they may also perform a root test using cold or heat exposure, palpation, or a gentle electrical current. This helps them determine whether the nerves inside the pulp are alive, damaged, or dead. 

X-rays

Dental X-rays give dentists a look inside the tooth to identify decay and infection that’s invisible to the naked eye. The extent of the internal damage is a key factor determining whether you need a root canal or a simple filling.

Related: What Is a Gum Line Cavity? Causes and Treatments

Keep your teeth healthy and strong with the team at Coral Reef Dental!

Whether you’re curious about the root canal recovery process or searching for a compassionate dental practice that will help you feel right at home, Coral Reef Dental is here for you. Reach out today to book an appointment!