Removing shallow tooth decay without filling?

Question

would a dentist remove shallow tooth decay from the groove/grinding surface of the molar without filling the teeth?

Answer 1

Only if you told him you wanted him to do something stupid. A cavity is like an iceberg, if you can see a little decay on the surface there is a lot of decay inside the tooth.
The dentist I took my daughter to might do this, He's an @sshole.

Answer 2

Usually, the dentist will remove the tooth and you will need an implant or bridge. If the decay has not gone to the pulp, the tooth can be cleaned out and filled and crowned or most likely a root canal performed and then crowned. It truly depends on the extent of the damage. I suggest you go see a dentist (if you have not) before you end up with an abcess and serious infection.

Answer 3

No. Cutting into the enamel, no matter how shallow will open the groove up and make it very easy for bacteria to cause further decay. If it is very shallow, he might flow a Pit and Fissure sealant into the channel, otherwise a composite or white filling is your best bet. Basically you are talking about Enamelplasty.

Answer 4

I agree with mahawi61. I certainly don't do this very often, but thousands have been done in the Scandinavian countries, the last I knew. If it's been done, it must be possible.

However, I also agree with Dave. If I _DO_ an enameloplasty, it is usually just so I can place a better seal in the groove.

Answer 5

I disagree with the previous replier, Enameloplasty if kept shallow, does not need a filling/sealant.