Restorative dentistry: caring for a tooth after assessment
A cavity cannot be assessed from a photograph or one symptom alone. An examination helps determine how to preserve useful tooth tissue and restore function.
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This information is general. It cannot establish whether this care is right for you, replace an examination or predict an individual result.
Reviewed by Dr Fabio Cunha, .
Key points
- Tooth decay involves loss of minerals, influenced in part by acids produced by plaque bacteria from sugars.
- A stain, sensitivity or photograph alone cannot establish a diagnosis; examination and sometimes imaging are needed.
- Treatment depends on the lesion, the tooth and surrounding tissues.
- Restorative care aims to preserve useful tooth structure and restore function.
Understanding tooth decay
Decay can develop when acids produced by plaque bacteria affect tooth mineral. A visible mark does not tell the whole story: some lesions are hidden, while some stains are not cavities.
Diagnosis
The dentist examines the tooth, symptoms and surrounding tissues. Imaging may be recommended when it adds useful information. A remote description cannot determine how deep or active a lesion is.
Treatment options
Depending on the findings, monitoring and preventive measures, a filling or another restoration may be discussed. A more extensive problem can call for a different plan. The decision is made after an assessment.
Conservative care
When a restoration is needed, the aim is to remove what is necessary and preserve useful tooth tissue. The choice of material and technique depends on the tooth and the remaining structure.
Preventing further lesions
Daily cleaning, fluoride use and dietary habits can be discussed as part of an individual prevention plan. Follow-up helps check both the tooth and any restoration.
Deciding what to do
Seek a dental assessment for persistent pain, a broken tooth or a concerning change. Your dentist can explain the proposed care, alternatives and price after examining you.
Restorative dentistry: common questions
What symptoms might suggest a cavity?
Sensitivity, pain or a visible change can prompt an examination, but none confirms a cavity on its own.
Can a cavity be diagnosed from a photograph?
No. A clinical examination and sometimes imaging are needed.
How quickly does a cavity worsen?
Progression varies; an examination is the way to assess your situation.
Can a cavity disappear by itself?
Early changes may be managed differently from a formed cavity. Your dentist must assess the stage.
Does cavity treatment hurt?
Comfort measures depend on the procedure and your situation; discuss concerns before treatment.
Does a cavity always require root canal treatment?
No. That decision depends on the pulp, the extent of the problem and whether the tooth can be restored.
Should a cavity in a baby tooth be assessed?
Yes. A dentist can advise whether monitoring or treatment is needed.
How much does cavity treatment cost?
The price depends on the diagnosis and care proposed. Ask for a personalised estimate.
General medical sources
Information specific to your situation is provided during your consultation.
- Société suisse des médecins-dentistes SSO: Carie
- Université de Genève: Division de cariologie et endodontie
- Organisation mondiale de la Santé: Recommandations 2026 pour une prise en charge moins invasive de la carie
- Office fédéral de la santé publique: Soins dentaires
Sources listed on the corresponding French page.
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Restorative dentistry
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