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Can a severe tooth cavity be treated without extraction?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am going to the dentist soon, and I know I have a cavity, and I think it is pretty big- it is easily noticeable. And I am just nervous because it is probably obvious that I do not brush- the bristles are always a really weird texture for me and I just do not want anyone to be mad at me because I have known about it for a while now (I feel bad for saying this, but I think it has been around six months) and never mentioned it to anyone because I am little scared of going to the dentist.

I do not like anyone feeling around in my mouth, and knowing about this cavity is making me even more nervous about going there today. I have had teeth pulled in the past, and I hate everything about it, but I am not sure they could just fill in this cavity.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

As humans, we all carry some kinds of secrets or fears back in our heads. I felt glad that you have the courage to admit that most people cannot. So be proud of that. I think you need scaling too, as you have not brushed for a long time, which leads to swollen gingiva that might be the reason for discomfort when using a brush.

As you have caries and sensitivity associated with it, you might not necessarily need an extraction. If the caries has progressed a lot, a root canal can be done to save your tooth. Betadine mouthwash, Gargle in lukewarm water two to three times a day. Do not worry, use it, if any foul breath, that will be covered, and your secret will be safe. If you feel uncomfortable using a brush, you can brush using your finger and toothpaste. That way, your mouth will also be clean, and issues with the bristle will also be resolved.

You can also take capsule Sporidex (Cephalexin) 500 mg one capsule twice daily for five days, tablet Zerodol SP (Aceclofenac, Paracetamol, and Serratiopeptidase) one tablet twice daily for five days, capsule Pan D (Pantoprazole and Domperidone) one capsule twice daily before a meal for five days

You will need a scaler to remove any tartar. Once done, you can start brushing using a soft-bristle brush (even a baby brush will do for a start). I am confident you will succeed. But you have to start the habit, and you will get used to it, trust me. You can train and motivate yourself by rewarding yourself with a candy or anything special.

In that way, you can overcome your fear and gain confidence. I am glad that I could be someone whom you can share a secret. I wish you good luck. You can trust me and ask if you have any further queries. I will be happy to help further. Hope your treatment goes fine. Do as I asked you to do. You are brave, you will be fine. I am confident about that.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer.

For further queries, you can consult me at icliniq.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byDr. Divya Banu M

Published At June 20, 2020
Reviewed AtJanuary 22, 2026

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