Why Won't My Dentist Fill My Cavity? Dental Decisions

Q: Why Won't My Dentist Fill My Cavity? Dental Decisions

Hello： If, after evaluation by a physician, the condition is identified as arrested caries, conservative management can indeed be considered. <br>This includes the application of high-concentration fluoride and regular monitoring. <br>Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Denti

After seeing the dentist for a cavity, no filling was done?

I previously visited a dentist due to tooth pain, and it was visibly clear that there was a dark, sunken cavity in my tooth.
Initially, the dentist planned to fill it, but after examining another tooth that was in worse condition, they decided to treat that one first.
They told me to monitor the tooth with the cavity, but I was already in pain—why not fill it? Later, I went to a new dentist, who said it looked okay and advised me to keep observing it.
However, I already have a cavity that is causing pain.
Are they waiting for it to reach the nerve so I will need a root canal and a crown? Should I switch to another dentist? Why can't they fill a cavity that has already been identified?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/26

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If, after evaluation by a physician, the condition is identified as arrested caries, conservative management can indeed be considered.
This includes the application of high-concentration fluoride and regular monitoring.
Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/11/26

More Info

When it comes to dental care, especially regarding cavities, it can be frustrating and confusing when you feel your concerns are not being adequately addressed. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a situation where multiple dentists have provided differing opinions on the treatment of your cavity. This can lead to uncertainty about the best course of action for your dental health.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that dentists often prioritize treatment based on the severity of the dental issue at hand. If a cavity is detected but is not causing significant pain or discomfort, a dentist may recommend monitoring it rather than immediate treatment. This is particularly true if the cavity is not yet deep enough to warrant a filling. Dentists aim to avoid overtreatment, which can lead to unnecessary procedures and costs for the patient.

In your case, the fact that you are experiencing pain suggests that the cavity has progressed to a point where it is affecting the nerve or pulp of the tooth. Pain is often a sign that the cavity is deeper and may require more invasive treatment, such as a root canal, if it has reached the nerve. However, if a dentist assesses that the cavity is still manageable and not yet affecting the nerve, they may choose to wait and observe the situation, especially if they believe that the tooth can still be saved without immediate intervention.

The decision to fill a cavity or not can also depend on the dentist's assessment of the tooth's overall health. If the tooth is structurally compromised or if there are other dental issues present, the dentist may prioritize those issues first. For example, if another tooth has a more severe cavity, the dentist might choose to treat that tooth first, especially if it poses a greater risk to your overall dental health.

If you feel that your concerns are not being taken seriously, or if you are experiencing ongoing pain, it may be worth seeking a second opinion from another dentist. A different perspective can provide clarity and help you understand whether immediate treatment is necessary. When consulting with a new dentist, be sure to communicate your symptoms clearly, including the pain you are experiencing and any concerns about the cavity.

Additionally, you might want to ask specific questions during your appointment, such as:
1. What is the current state of my cavity?
2. Why is immediate treatment not recommended?
3. What are the potential risks of waiting to treat this cavity?
4. If I continue to experience pain, what steps should I take next?
Ultimately, your dental health is a priority, and you deserve to have your concerns addressed. If you feel uncomfortable with the recommendations you are receiving, it is entirely reasonable to seek out a dentist who will take your symptoms seriously and provide the treatment you need. Remember, effective communication with your dental care provider is key to ensuring you receive the best possible care.

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