Why are my teeth decaying so fast and do I need RCT for all my aching teeth? - #29001

Client_c0b154

I had cavities n fillings in many tooth.now they are aching again n the doctorhas told that need rct in all that ache . Is rct must for all. Pain is moderate. Fillings are not longer than past five years or less. Why my teeth is decaying so fast.

How long have you been experiencing tooth pain?:

- More than 6 months

Have you noticed any specific triggers for your tooth pain?:

- Sweet foods

How often do you visit the dentist for check-ups?:

- Once a year

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Dr. Shayeque Reza

I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.

44 days ago

Based on your history of multiple filled teeth with long-standing (over 6 months) mild but persistent pain, especially on biting, this suggests that some of those teeth may have deep decay or irritation reaching the nerve, a condition often leading toward Pulpitis. In such cases, simple refilling usually does not solve the problem if the nerve is already affected; that is why your dentist is recommending Root canal treatment (RCT). However, not all filled teeth automatically need RCT—only those with confirmed nerve damage (based on X-ray, sensitivity tests, or severe symptoms). Some teeth with minor leakage or shallow decay can still be managed with refilling or crown placement. The best approach is to treat teeth one by one based on severity, starting with the most painful or infected. In summary, RCT can sometimes be avoided in early cases, but if the nerve is involved, it is the correct treatment to save the tooth, and not all your filled teeth will necessarily require it.

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Dr. Bharat Joshi

I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.

43 days ago

Hello dear
See RCT is always the last resort.
First there is excavation of caries which is followed by either restoration of gic or sandwich technique (gic + light cure)
However in case of reversible pulpits
Ipc or indirect pulp capping  is done
It is associated with
Sedative dressing
Dentinal barrier to prevent further progression
However iopa or x ray is must to evaluate the extent.
So please consult the concerned dentist and as per iopa or clinical history get treatment done.
Not all pain ful conditions require RCT.
Some times desensitised paste are useful
Regards

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Dr. Aarav Deshmukh

I am a general physician with 8 years of practice, mostly in urban clinics and semi-rural setups. I began working right after MBBS in a govt hospital in Kerala, and wow — first few months were chaotic, not gonna lie. Since then, I’ve seen 1000s of patients with all kinds of cases — fevers, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, infections, you name it. I usually work with working-class patients, and that changed how I treat — people don’t always have time or money for fancy tests, so I focus on smart clinical diagnosis and practical treatment. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in preventive care — like helping young adults with early metabolic issues. I also counsel a lot on diet, sleep, and stress — more than half the problems start there anyway. I did a certification in evidence-based practice last year, and I keep learning stuff online. I’m not perfect (nobody is), but I care. I show up, I listen, I adjust when I’m wrong. Every patient needs something slightly different. That’s what keeps this work alive for me.

43 days ago

Why your teeth are decaying quickly might be tied to several factors. Possible causes include poor oral hygiene, high sugar diet, genetic predisposition, or underlying medical conditions that affect oral health. Regular plaque buildup on teeth leads to decay; you might not be adequately removing it with brushing and flossing. If you consume sugary foods and drinks often, the sugar can mix with bacteria in your mouth to form an acid that attacks the enamel. Conditions like dry mouth or acid reflux might also contribute to erosion. Assess your daily habits and consider any recent lifestyle changes that might have impacted your oral health. If your doctor is recommending root canal treatment (RCT) for all aching teeth, it’s likely due to the decay having reached the pulp or the nerve inside your tooth. When this happens, simply refilling may not be effective as the internal part of the tooth could be infected. It’s reasonable to consider a second opinion, but if X-rays and clinical evaluation reveal infection or pulp involvement, RCT is often necessary to save the tooth and prevent the spread of infection. Pain that is moderate but persistent is another indicator that the issue may be worsening. To manage this, practice impeccable oral hygiene — brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, reduce intake of sugary foods, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams. If lifestyle factors are contributing, modifying them can be vital to stopping further decay. If any tooth discomfort escalates significantly, alert your dentist quickly as delayed care can worsen oral infections, leading to complications. Running a conversation with your dentist about any lifestyle or dietary changes that might be increasing your risk for decay can also be revealing and helpful.

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