When you have a cavity, it’s important to treat it as soon as possible. Removing the decay and filling it with composite resin protects your tooth from damage. When you have a deeper cavity, an endodontic treatment can be used to relieve discomfort and restore the tooth. While these two treatments are similar, they are used in different ways. Today, your Riverside Dental Group of California will explore the differences between a filling and a root canal.
Treating A Standard Cavity Vs Severe Decay
More than half of all adults in the United States have had at least one cavity, so you are likely already familiar with how they are treated. Dental decay progresses in stages, so if you detect it early it can be reversed with minimal treatment. The best way to prevent needing a restoration at all is with proper preventive care. Be sure to brush and floss twice a day and visit your dentist biannually for a checkup. These appointments are important because they monitor for signs of decay that you may miss when doing your at-home oral hygiene routine.
Fillings are used when a cavity is mild to moderate. At this stage, the decay may have deteriorated some of your enamel. This may cause a change in the texture or color of your tooth’s surface. For decay that has reached beyond the top surface of the tooth and entered the pulp, a root canal may be performed.
How The Treatments Differ
A filling is a minimally invasive restoration. You may be numbed before the treatment for your comfort. Then, the dentist will use a drill to remove the decayed part of your tooth. After this, composite resin will be added to the leftover hole. This helps blend in with your smile and protects the area from further damage. You will need to wait at least thirty minutes before eating or drinking anything.
In contrast, a root canal is more invasive. First, you will be numbed. Then, like a filling, the decayed part of the tooth will be numbed. However, the cavity is deeper into your tooth, so the drilling will be more invasive. After that, the area is filled, and a crown is placed on top. You may experience some mild discomfort when eating for the next day, but it should not persist longer than 24 hours.
We’re Here To Help If You Need A Restoration
To schedule a checkup or other dental service, call your nearest Riverside Dental Group location today.
Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.
Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800.
Riverside Dental Group at Woodcrest in Riverside, CA at (951) 776-9001.
Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290
Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at (951) 369-1001.
Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.
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