When your tooth hurts, it’s natural to wonder: Do I need a filling, or is a root canal required? Making the right choice early can prevent pain, infection, and further dental work.

If you live in Mount Lawley or nearby suburbs like Highgate, Inglewood, or Maylands, understanding the symptoms and what to expect will help you make informed decisions before your appointment.

Understanding the Difference

Fillings and root canals both treat tooth decay, but they address different levels of damage:

  • Filling: Repairs minor or moderate cavities that haven’t reached the tooth’s pulp. It restores the tooth’s surface and prevents further decay.
  • Root Canal: Required when decay or trauma reaches the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. It removes infection and preserves the tooth structure.

Think of fillings as a “first line of defence” and root canals as a “rescue treatment” when damage is more severe.

When a Filling Is Enough

A filling may be sufficient if:

  • The cavity is small or moderate
  • The pulp of the tooth remains healthy
  • Pain is mild or only appears briefly with hot, cold, or sweet foods
  • There are minor enamel defects or dark spots

Early dental visits in Mount Lawley or nearby suburbs can help identify these issues before a root canal becomes necessary. Catching decay early makes treatment simpler and more comfortable.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Sometimes, it isn’t obvious whether a filling will be enough. A root canal is necessary when the pulp—the sensitive centre of your tooth—has been damaged by decay, trauma, or infection.

Common signs include:

  • Persistent or moderate-to-severe pain, often triggered by hot or cold foods and drinks
  • Pain when biting or chewing
  • Discolouration of the tooth
  • Swelling or tenderness in the gums or face
  • Visible chips, cracks, or other tooth damage
  • Pain or infection in a previously filled tooth

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek dental care promptly. Your dentist can determine whether a filling will suffice or if a root canal is the safer option to preserve your natural tooth.

Chelmsford Dental Mount Lawley dentist showing tooth model to patient

How Dentists Decide

Dentists rely on a combination of tools and observations:

  1. Visual inspection: Detecting cavities, cracks, or discolouration
  2. X-rays: Assessing the depth of decay and pulp health
  3. Symptom discussion: Understanding pain patterns and severity
  4. Pulp vitality testing: Checking the nerve’s response

This careful assessment ensures you receive the most appropriate treatment for your tooth without unnecessary procedures.

Cost Comparison (Relative)

While exact costs depend on your situation, the general difference is:

  • Fillings: Quicker and simpler, so generally less expensive
  • Root canals: More complex and may require additional restoration (like a crown), making them costlier

Cost is important, but preserving your natural teeth and preventing further problems should be the priority.

What Happens If You Delay Treatment?

Ignoring dental pain or sensitivity can lead to:

  • Worsening decay or infection
  • Increased pain
  • Abscess formation
  • Tooth loss

Prompt treatment in Mount Lawley, Highgate, Inglewood, or Maylands can prevent these complications and maintain long-term oral health.

Quick Decision Tips for Patients

To summarise, consider the following:

  • Mild, short-lived sensitivity → likely a filling
  • Persistent or severe pain, swelling, or discolouration → likely a root canal
  • Previous fillings causing repeated pain → consult your dentist about root canal options

Remember, only a dentist can make the final recommendation. Regular check-ups are key to early detection.

If you want to understand more about how fillings and root canals are performed, recovery tips, and aftercare, you can check our full procedural guide here: [Root Canals vs Fillings – Full Guide].

General Dentistry in Mount Lawley

At Chelmsford Dental, we focus on preserving your natural teeth and helping patients in Mount Lawley, Highgate, Inglewood, and Maylands make informed treatment decisions.

Whether you need a filling or a root canal, our team guides you through the process safely and comfortably. Don’t wait for tooth pain to worsen— book an appointment today to get personalised advice for your smile.

Call (08) 6146 2555 or book online.

Visit us at 2 Chelmsford Road in Mount Lawley WA.