If i have tooth decay, is a root canal the only treatment?

Depends on: How extensive the decay is and whether you are interested in saving the tooth or not. Some other options to discuss are fillings, pulp caps, extraction, implants etc.

Sometimes: Tooth decay is a destructive process that when stopped early only requires a simple filling to restore the defect. If allowed to progress it may lead to an infection that requires vital pulp therapy, root canal or even an extraction. Preservation of the natural tooth is always your best treatment but if the decay is not treated early total loss may be the only treatment option. See your dds.

No: All depends on the extent of the decay and the health of the tooth. See your dentist to find out your options.

Tooth decay: Only if the decay reaches the nerve, or you start having pain.

Depends: Depends on the amount of the tooth that has been destroyed by decay and if the nerve of the tooth has become infected. The greater the destructive process, the fewer restorative choices are available. See your Dentist soon to increase your options.

Not Necessarily: Depends of the extent of the decay and how the tooth responds to more conservative treatment.