Cavity treatment: 11 frequently asked questions

1. Q1

   Does cavity treatment hurt a lot?

   Most is done under local anesthesia, and a computer-controlled anesthesia device that adjusts injection speed and volume reduces the discomfort of the injection. Sensitivity varies with the depth of the cavity and from person to person; we explain at the consultation.

2. Q2

   Is cavity treatment finished in one visit?

   Resin treatment of an early cavity is usually completed in one visit. Inlays and crowns need time to make, so about 2 visits; with root canal treatment, about 3–5 visits.

3. Q3

   How can you tell a cavity from staining?

   Staining is pigment on the surface, so it shows no fluorescence response and can be removed by scaling and polishing. We confirm actual demineralization or decay with Q-ray fluorescence and X-rays before deciding on treatment.

4. Q4

   Can a small cavity just be watched?

   At the white-spot stage on the enamel surface, progression can be stopped with fluoride and brushing, so we monitor it. Decay that has reached the dentin does not stop by itself, so we recommend treatment. Which applies is judged by examination.

5. Q5

   How long can a tooth last after root canal treatment?

   If it is well protected with a crown after root canal treatment and regular checkups are kept up, you can use it as a natural tooth for a long time. The literature reports a 10-year survival rate of about 86–93%, depending on the remaining tooth structure and how it is cared for.

6. Q6

   I had root canal treatment but it still hurts. Did it fail?

   Discomfort when chewing for a few days right after treatment is common. If pain continues after several weeks or swelling develops, complex branches inside the root, remaining bacteria or a crack may be the cause, and we consider retreatment or other options.

7. Q7

   I want to replace an old amalgam filling. Is that possible?

   There is no need to replace an amalgam filling that is in good condition. We check for secondary decay, cracks or open margins under the existing restoration, and if there is a problem, replace it with resin, an inlay or a crown as appropriate.

8. Q8

   Does health insurance cover cavity treatment?

   Glass ionomer fillings and root canal treatment are covered, as are light-cured resin fillings for the permanent teeth of children aged 12 and under. Resin, ceramic inlays and zirconia crowns for adults are not covered; we explain item by item before treatment.

9. Q9

   Is sensitivity after cavity treatment normal?

   After treating a deep cavity, the tooth may be sensitive to cold for days to weeks, and it usually settles. If it gets worse, also hurts with heat, or throbs without any stimulus, it may have progressed to nerve inflammation and needs to be checked again.

10. Q10

    What happens if a cavity is left untreated?

    Decay does not stop by itself; it progresses inward. Left alone, it can reach the nerve and require root canal treatment, or progress further to extraction, so it is best to check it early.

11. Q11

    I stopped treatment partway at another clinic. Can you continue it?

    Yes. We check the state of the previous treatment carefully and then continue. We assess your current condition with a detailed diagnosis and draw up a new plan for the remaining treatment.

※ The answers above are general information and do not replace an individual diagnosis or treatment plan. Treatment results and side effects can vary from person to person. · Last reviewed 2026-09-12 · Reviewed by Director Jeong Jinwoo (board-certified prosthodontist and specialist in integrated dentistry)

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Cavity treatment: check what applies in your case

The answers are general standards. The answer for your own teeth is given at the consultation after diagnosis.

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