Toothache? That dull, throbbing pain that makes you dread your next sip of coffee or bite of food? We’ve all been there. And if your dentist just mentioned “deep cavity” or “root canal,” you’re probably wondering—what’s the difference?
More importantly, you want to know which treatment is right for you and where to go for reliable, painless root canal treatment in Hyderabad.
Let’s clear the confusion
What’s a Deep Cavity Filling?
A deep cavity filling is used when tooth decay has eaten into the inner layers of your tooth—but hasn’t reached the nerve just yet.
Here’s how it works:
- The dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth.
- A protective lining (like calcium hydroxide) is applied if the decay is close to the nerve.
- The cavity is then filled with composite resin, glass ionomer, or amalgam.

The goal? Stop the decay from spreading further and save the natural tooth structure. Deep fillings are less invasive than root canals and are usually done in one sitting.
What Is a Root Canal?
Now, if the decay has already reached the nerve (pulp) of your tooth, a root canal becomes necessary.
In this case, a filling won’t cut it.
Here’s what a root canal involves:
- The infected nerve tissue is removed.
- The root canals inside the tooth are cleaned, disinfected, and shaped.
- They’re then filled with a rubber-like material (gutta-percha) and sealed.
- In most cases, a crown is placed on top for protection.
The goal? Eliminate infection, relieve pain, and save the tooth without extracting it.
So, What’s the Real Difference?
Feature | Deep Cavity Filling | Root Canal |
---|---|---|
Nerve Affected? | No | Yes |
Procedure Time | Usually 30–45 mins | 1 to 2 sittings, 45–90 mins each |
Pain Level | Minimal | Numbed with local anesthesia |
Cost in Hyderabad | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 | ₹4,000 – ₹10,000 |
Restoration | Filling only | Often needs a crown |
Signs You May Need a Root Canal Instead
Sometimes, it’s not clear if a filling will be enough. Your symptoms often tell the real story.
If you experience:
- Throbbing or lingering tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn’t fade
- Swelling near the tooth
- Pain while chewing
- A discolored tooth
…it’s time to consider a root canal. Waiting it out usually makes things worse, not cheaper.
Can a Deep Filling Become a Root Canal Later?
Yes. If a deep filling is placed when the nerve is already inflamed or traumatized, you may develop symptoms later—pain, sensitivity, or swelling. In that case, a root canal becomes unavoidable.
That’s why accurate diagnosis with X-rays is critical. A good clinic in Hyderabad will always check the nerve’s condition before deciding between a filling and a root canal.
Best Root Canal Treatment in Hyderabad: What to Look For
Hyderabad has no shortage of dental clinics, but not all are equal. For successful and painless root canal therapy, look for:
- Experienced endodontists (root canal specialists)
- Advanced rotary equipment for precision
- Digital X-rays or CBCT imaging
- Microscope or magnification
- Rubber dam isolation (prevents infection during procedure)
- Post-treatment crown placement under one roof
Areas like Jubilee Hills, Banjara Hills, and Madhapur house some of the most trusted dental setups with multi-specialty teams and patient-focused care.
How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost in Hyderabad?
Tooth Type | Estimated Cost |
---|---|
Front Tooth | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 |
Premolar | ₹5,000 – ₹7,500 |
Molar | ₹6,500 – ₹10,000 |
Crown (if needed) | ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 (metal, ceramic, zirconia options) |
- A deep cavity filling works when the nerve isn’t infected.
- A root canal is necessary if the pulp is damaged or decayed.
- Acting early saves time, money, and pain.
- Hyderabad has excellent clinics offering affordable and expert root canal care.
Whether you need a simple filling or full root canal therapy, don’t delay treatment. Small problems turn big quickly in dentistry—and the longer you wait, the more expensive (and painful) it gets.
Still unsure what you need? Book a consultation with a Arka Dental in Hyderabad, and let them guide you with the right diagnosis and plan.
FAQs
If the decay hasn’t reached the nerve, a deep filling may be enough. But if you have persistent pain, sensitivity to hot/cold, or swelling, a root canal is likely required. Only an X-ray and clinical exam can confirm it.
Yes. If decay is close to the nerve and not sealed properly, or if the pulp becomes inflamed, you may need a root canal later—even after a deep filling.
No. Root canal treatment is done under local anesthesia. Most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure and only mild soreness afterward.
Most root canals take 1 to 2 sittings, around 45–90 minutes each. Complex cases may need a third visit. A crown is usually placed a few days later.
The cost ranges from ₹4,000 to ₹10,000 depending on the tooth type and complexity. A crown (if needed) can add ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 based on the material.