Do You Need a Filling or Root Canal?

Do you have tooth pain or sensitivity? It's natural to wonder if you need a filling or a root canal. In most cases, the answer is yes — you probably need one or the other. CK Dental & Associates can help determine which procedure is best for your teeth when you come in for a consultation.

Whether you need a filling or root canal, it's always helpful to learn about treatment options and how they improve your oral health. Call Dr. Woo Young Chang in Washington, D.C. to understand when you should have a filling or root canal, both of which are vital to the health of your teeth.

What is a dental filling?

A filling is a restoration that rebuilds tooth structure when it has been damaged or decayed. Fillings also rescue a tooth that has been worn down from bruxism (teeth grinding). Dental fillings can be made of a wide range of materials but are strong enough to withstand normal wear and tear. Many modern fillings are tooth-colored, so they are less noticeable and blend in with your other natural teeth.

Here's why fillings can be beneficial for your oral health:

• Prevent a tooth from further decay

• Protect a tooth from breaking or fracturing

• Improve the shape or size of a tooth

How does a root canal work?

Root canals are necessary when the nerve tissue inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed. The infection can cause tooth pain and may eventually lead to the loss of the affected tooth. Dr. Chang will remove the infected nerve tissue during a root canal procedure, and then clean and seal the tooth. While some patients are nervous about the idea of getting a root canal, this procedure can ultimately save your natural tooth.

We may recommend root canals in Washington, D.C. to achieve the following:

• Prevent further pain or damage to the tooth

• Save a tooth from extraction if possible

• Treat a painful infection

Which one is right for me?

Determining whether you need a dental filling or root canal can be challenging. Both procedures are essential for the health of your teeth, and, in most cases, you will need one or the other. However, there are some instances where a simple filling may be all you need. For example, if you have a small cavity that only causes mild discomfort, a dental filling can restore your tooth.

If you experience more severe symptoms or signs of infection, on the other hand, you likely need a root canal. This procedure treats infections at the root of the tooth that can be detrimental to your oral health. Patients who are still unsure about their situation can always turn to Dr. Chang. Our trusted team can recommend the best treatment option for your smile.

Get a filling or root canal

Are you concerned about your teeth and whether you need a dental filling or root canal? Turn to Dr. Woo Young Chang at CK Dental & Associates for help! We proudly serve patients in Washington, D.C., and we look forward to discussing your smile's health with you. Our goal is to relieve tooth pain and other symptoms so you can enjoy your life to the fullest.