Can I Get Fillings for Cavities Without Pain? Dental FAQs Answered

Q: Can I Get Fillings for Cavities Without Pain? Dental FAQs Answered

Hello： <br>1. <br>Generally, a cavity can be filled. <br>However, if it is mentioned that "it no longer hurts," does that imply it has hurt before? If so, it may have affected the nerve. <br>A proper diagnosis requires the use of X-rays; if the nerve is necrotic, then root canal

Can I get a dental filling for this?

Hello Dr.
Liu,
I have a few questions to ask:
1.
The second molar on the lower right side has a "V"-shaped cavity with the opening facing outward.
It no longer hurts.
Can this be filled? If a tooth is not painful or sensitive, does it necessarily require a root canal?
2.
There is a large molar on the upper right side that has a cavity in the center, and a toothpick can reach the gum.
Only the upper and lower parts are supporting it.
Does this mean it can only be extracted and replaced with a prosthetic tooth? If a prosthetic tooth is needed, do we have to sacrifice the two adjacent healthy teeth? (Extracting one tooth to place three prosthetics).
Thank you for your assistance!

Cai Xiansheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/05

Dr. Liu Tiancai reply Dentistry

Hello:
1.
Generally, a cavity can be filled.
However, if it is mentioned that "it no longer hurts," does that imply it has hurt before? If so, it may have affected the nerve.
A proper diagnosis requires the use of X-rays; if the nerve is necrotic, then root canal treatment is necessary.
2.
Whether to extract a tooth depends on the extent of the decay.
If, after removal of the decay, the remaining structure is insufficient to support the tooth or if the retention for a prosthesis is inadequate, extraction is recommended.
If extraction is performed and a prosthesis is needed, there is now an alternative option called "dental implant systems," which allows for the preservation of adjacent teeth.
However, this option is more expensive.
Our clinic offers dental implants as a choice.

Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Yi-Chou, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2004/10/05

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding dental fillings and the management of cavities. I understand that dental issues can be quite concerning, and I’m here to provide clarity on your situation.

1. Cavity Treatment Without Pain: You mentioned that your lower right second molar has a cavity shaped like a "凹" (depression) and that it is no longer painful. Generally, if a cavity is not causing pain, it can still be treated with a filling. The absence of pain often indicates that the decay has not progressed to the pulp (nerve) of the tooth, which is a good sign. However, it is essential to have a dentist evaluate the extent of the decay through clinical examination and possibly X-rays. If the decay is superficial and has not reached the pulp, a filling can be placed without the need for a root canal treatment.

2. Root Canal Necessity: It is not always necessary to perform a root canal just because a tooth has a cavity. Root canals are typically required when the decay has reached the pulp, causing inflammation or infection. If your tooth is asymptomatic and the decay is manageable, your dentist may opt for a filling instead. However, if there are signs of pulp involvement, such as lingering sensitivity or pain, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth.

3. Extraction and Replacement Options: Regarding your upper right molar that has significant decay, where the cavity has progressed to the point that you can touch the underlying tissue with a toothpick, it is likely that the tooth may need to be extracted. When a tooth is severely compromised, extraction is often the best option to prevent further complications, such as infection.

After extraction, you have several options for replacement, including dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures. If you choose to have a bridge, it typically requires the adjacent teeth to be prepared (reduced in size) to support the bridge. This means that while you can replace the missing tooth, the adjacent healthy teeth may need to be altered. However, with dental implants, you can replace the missing tooth without affecting the neighboring teeth, as implants are placed directly into the jawbone.

4. Preserving Adjacent Teeth: If you are concerned about sacrificing healthy teeth for a bridge, discuss this with your dentist. They can provide you with a treatment plan that considers your preferences and the health of your surrounding teeth. In some cases, if the adjacent teeth are healthy and strong, your dentist may recommend an implant as a more conservative approach.

In conclusion, it is possible to get fillings for cavities without pain, provided that the decay has not reached the pulp. Root canals are not always necessary if the tooth remains asymptomatic. For severely decayed teeth, extraction may be required, but there are various options for replacement that can preserve the integrity of your adjacent teeth. I recommend scheduling an appointment with your dentist to discuss your specific situation in detail, as they can provide personalized advice based on a thorough examination.

Best wishes for your dental health!
Sincerely,
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