Do I Really Need This Treatment? How Dentists Decide What’s Necessary

Do I Really Need This Treatment? How Dentists Decide What’s Necessary

7th January 2026

It’s a question we hear often at Bicton Place Dental:

“Do I really need this treatment if nothing hurts yet?”

It’s a fair question — and an important one.

How dentists decide what treatment is necessary

Dentists don’t recommend treatment lightly. Every recommendation is based on a combination of clinical evidence, experience, and what’s best for your long-term oral health.

When your dentist suggests preventative treatment, they are usually looking at:

• Early tooth decay that hasn’t caused pain yet

• Small cracks or weakened teeth

• Early signs of gum disease

• Wear, erosion, or bite issues that can worsen over time

These problems are often silent in the early stages, meaning you may not feel pain until the damage becomes more advanced — and more expensive to fix.

Why waiting for pain often leads to bigger problems

Pain is usually a late warning sign. By the time something hurts, the issue has often progressed from a simple, preventative treatment (like a filling or hygiene care) to something more complex, such as:

• A crown instead of a filling

• Root canal treatment instead of simple repair

• Tooth loss or infection requiring urgent care

Early treatment is not about “doing more dentistry” — it’s about doing less, sooner.

Our approach: honest, preventative care

At Bicton Place Dental, we believe in clear explanations, visual evidence, and shared decision-making. Your dentist will explain:

• What they can see now

• What is likely to happen if nothing is done

• All reasonable treatment options, including timing and costs

The goal is always the same: to help you avoid pain, stress, and unnecessary treatment in the future.

If you’re ever unsure, ask questions. Preventative dentistry works best when you understand why action today protects your smile tomorrow.