Tooth decay is a common dental problem with 26 percent of the United States population with untreated tooth decay. There are various manifestations of untreated dental decay, one of them being root canal infection. 

Root canal therapy is an excellent alternative to tooth extraction and can help people keep intact their beautiful smiles without much hassle. However, having talked about the good parts of root canal therapy, it is essential to acknowledge that many people are afraid of it as it has a bad reputation for being excruciatingly painful. 

So, let us try to answer the lingering question of whether a dental filling is a feasible alternative to a root canal.

Is Dental Filling a Viable Substitute to Root Canal Therapy?

A dental filling is a more straightforward treatment than a root canal, and the former is more preferred by patients. However, the viability of a dental filling to treat a decayed tooth depends on the severity of the infection. If the infection has seeped into the tooth’s pulp, then root canal therapy becomes unavoidable. 

On the contrary, fillings can be used instead of a root canal if the tooth has a smaller cavity or a minor decay, which has not yet reached the pulp. Likewise, it is imperative to remember that the objective of root canal therapy is to prevent further damage to tissues. In contrast, a dental filling primarily aims to restore the function and appearance of the tooth. 

Schedule your appointment with a dentist today and get the treatment on time!