Hi Lulu. I've been told, more than once and by more than one dentist, that I needed a root canal. I told them to simply put in a filling and I've not had a problem with the tooth/teeth since. root canals are huge profit makers b/c then you have to deal with crowns, etc. Of course now I'm dealing with having the Amalgams removed, but that's another story. I assume oil pulling will help with infection, though I can't comment on that b/c I oil pull for other reasons (bad gums). If nothing else, it will make your mouth feel fresh and your teeth sparkling white! I also agree with using oil of oregano. It's strong and seemingly effective. So, if you don't already have a filling, or have a shallow filling, ask them to just do another filling. NO MERCURY/AMALGAM! Good luck.