Do all cavities need dental fillings for the tooth? Learn more from Rochester Hills, MI dentist

When patients are faced with cavities, they are often in need of tooth fillings. However, do all cavities need fillings? Drs. John Aurelia and Dina Khoury of Rochester Hills, MI encourage patients to have their smile evaluated to determine if this dental work is necessary.

What is a cavity?

A cavity is a hole in the enamel and the dentin layers of a tooth. With today’s technology, many dentists can detect cavities earlier than ever before. This means that treatment can be done earlier. But is it necessary? In many cases, the early signs of decay, when the tooth starts to soften in a specific area before turning into a cavity, can be left alone until it requires treatment.

Early decay doesn’t always mean that a patient needs a filling. In some situations, the decay may be reversed with the buildup of minerals caused by better oral hygiene habits, dietary changes, and fluoride therapy. This means that the enamel of the tooth is built back up and the area is no longer a concern.

There are times when it is beneficial to have a cavity filled. This is when the cavity is extremely large, is about to affect the dental pulp, or for patients who are in pain. Fillings are best in situations such as this to keep the condition from becoming more of a concern, especially if the dental pulp becomes infected, as this often requires root canal therapy to resolve.

Drs. John Aurelia and Dina Khoury do not believe in overtreating areas of the smile. They prefer conservative methods and may decide that an area of early decay should be monitored, but not filled.

What are the benefits of waiting to have an early cavity treated?

There are some advantages to avoid filling a cavity in the earlier stages. They include:

• Cavity can be reversed with natural mineral build-up with therapy and better oral hygiene habits
• The natural tooth structure is not compromised with drilling
• Patients do not have to worry about a filling falling out
• Patients do not have to worry about breakage of a tooth due to a filling

For many of our patients who have signs of early decay, we may encourage them to improve their oral health habits and have a fluoride treatment before they leave. Then to evaluate the cavity again at their next recall appointment. Sometimes, the “watch and wait” approach can keep patients from getting dental work done that may be deemed unnecessary with time.

Learn more about dental fillings

Drs. John Aurelia and Dina Khoury of the Rochester Hills, MI work with patients on a regular basis who are experiencing conditions such as tooth decay. If you believe you need a dental filling, we encourage you to book a consultation appointment with our staff for an initial evaluation. Our practice is conveniently located at 804 N. Main Street #201A and can be reached for an appointment at [phone2].

Dr. John Aurelia
Connect with John L. Aurelia on Linkedin.

Dr. John Aurelia, DDS, brings over two decades of expertise in dentistry, having earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2003. An active member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American and Michigan Dental Associations, Dr. Aurelia has also completed advanced studies at the Dawson Academy and Pankey Institute. His dedication extends beyond practice, with a history of humanitarian work in the Dominican Republic and a focus on integrating cutting-edge techniques in implants and cosmetic dentistry. Known for personalized care, Dr. Aurelia is committed to enhancing patients' smiles and confidence.

Dr. Dina Khoury

Dr. Dina Khoury, a dedicated dentist with over 20 years of experience, graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1995. Following her education, she served veterans during her residency at the VA Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Khoury has spent most of her career in private practice, focusing on patients of all ages and specializing in cosmetic dentistry. As an active member of the Rochester community, she combines professional expertise with a personal commitment to patient care and local engagement.