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Root canal therapy and fillings are some of the most common dental treatments used to restore damage and relieve pain caused by tooth decay. While these treatments both have the goal of preserving your smile, they each function differently. To help you better understand these approaches to restorative dentistry, consider three major differences between cavity fillings and root canals.

3 Key Differences Between Root Canals and Cavity Fillings

1. Damage Treated

Fillings are designed to treat cavities, which are small holes in enamel that have occurred as a result of bacterial activity in the mouth. In essence, they are an early solution used to resolve surface damage.

Root canals, on the other hand, are necessary to treat damage that goes much deeper than a cavity. Specifically, they are used to stop infections that have affected the interior of the tooth, which is made up of a collection of tissues and nerves known as dental pulp.

2. Method of Preservation  

Filling treatment starts by cleaning the decayed area of the tooth to prevent further damage from bacteria. Once the site is prepared, a dentist fills in the cavity with a malleable substance such as amalgam metal or composite resin. This material hardens in place and adheres to the tooth surface to keep the structure strong and functional.

root canalSince root canals address infection within the tooth, their treatment steps are more complex than that of a filling. The dentist drills a hole through the tooth to access the infected dental pulp. This material is removed, and the tooth is sterilized to eliminate remaining oral bacteria. The dentist then fills the interior with a durable substance that hardens in place to strengthen the tooth.

If the damage is minor, the drilled hole may be restored using filling methods. However, if a considerable portion of the tooth is damaged, a dental crown may be needed to fully restore the structure.

3. Cost

Due to the amount of worked involved with each treatment, cavity fillings tend to be more affordable than root canals. Fortunately, most patients can avoid the need for root canals if they visit their dentist every six months for a comprehensive oral exam and cleaning. If tooth decay has occurred, these routine appointments should provide enough time to treat the damage with a filling.

 

When you want to keep your teeth in good condition, Ronald L. Rasmussen, DDS offers the preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental services you need to smile with confidence. Through routine dental cleanings and exams, this Sacramento, CA, dentist will help defend your teeth against decay and catch oral health problems early on. If damage is present, they are equipped to provide reliable fillings, root canals, and extractions in a gentle and stress-free fashion. Visit this provider online to learn more about their services, or call (916) 689-1100 to schedule a convenient appointment.

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