Q: How much does it cost to treat a cavity in Brooklyn?

A composite filling costs $150 – $500 depending on size. If the cavity is large enough to need a crown, cost jumps to $900 – $1,800 . A root canal and crown total $1,500 – $3,300 . Early treatment is always cheapest.

Q: What is the difference between a filling, inlay, and crown?

Fillings repair small cavities ( $150 – $500 ). Inlays are lab-made restorations for medium cavities ( $600 – $1,200 ). Crowns cap the entire tooth for large decay or fractures ( $900 – $1,800 ). Your dentist recommends based on remaining tooth structure.

Question 1

How much does it cost to treat a cavity in Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

A composite filling costs $150 – $500 depending on size. If the cavity is large enough to need a crown, cost jumps to $900 – $1,800. A root canal and crown total $1,500 – $3,300. Early treatment is always cheapest.

Question 2

What are the signs of tooth decay?

Accepted Answer

Sensitivity to sweets, hot, or cold; visible dark spots or holes in teeth; toothache; pain when biting. Early-stage decay often has no symptoms — this is why regular dental checkups with X-rays are essential for catching cavities early.

Question 3

Can tooth decay be reversed?

Accepted Answer

Very early decay (demineralization — white spots on enamel) can be reversed with fluoride treatments, improved hygiene, and dietary changes. Once a cavity forms through the enamel surface, it cannot heal and requires a filling.

Question 4

What is silver diamine fluoride (SDF)?

Accepted Answer

SDF is a liquid applied to cavities that stops decay progression without drilling. It costs $25 – $75 per tooth and is especially useful for young children, elderly patients, and teeth where traditional fillings are difficult. It does turn the decayed area black.

Question 5

What causes tooth decay?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria in dental plaque produce acid when you eat sugar or carbohydrates. This acid dissolves tooth enamel over time, creating cavities. Frequent snacking, poor brushing, dry mouth, and lack of fluoride accelerate the process.

Question 6

How do I prevent tooth decay?

Accepted Answer

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary snacks and acidic drinks, get dental sealants on molars, use fluoride rinse if recommended, and see your Brooklyn dentist every 6 months for checkups and cleanings.

Question 7

Does insurance cover tooth decay treatment in Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

Most dental insurance covers fillings at 80%, crowns at 50%, and root canals at 50–80%. Preventive services (exams, cleanings, X-rays) are usually covered at 100%. Medicaid covers all decay treatment at participating Brooklyn providers.

Question 8

How long can I wait to treat a cavity?

Accepted Answer

Small cavities grow slowly but steadily. A cavity that costs $150 – $300 to fill today could require a $900 – $1,800 crown in 6–12 months or a $1,500 – $3,300 root canal if it reaches the nerve. Do not delay treatment.

Question 9

What is the difference between a filling, inlay, and crown?

Accepted Answer

Fillings repair small cavities ($150 – $500). Inlays are lab-made restorations for medium cavities ($600 – $1,200). Crowns cap the entire tooth for large decay or fractures ($900 – $1,800). Your dentist recommends based on remaining tooth structure.

Question 10

Can baby teeth get cavities?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and they should be treated. Baby tooth cavities cause pain, infection, and can damage developing permanent teeth. Untreated decay in baby teeth is the most common chronic childhood disease.

Question 11

What happens if a cavity reaches the nerve?

Accepted Answer

When decay penetrates to the pulp (nerve), a root canal is needed to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth. Without treatment, infection spreads, causing an abscess and potentially requiring extraction.

Question 12

Is tooth decay contagious?

Accepted Answer

The bacteria that cause decay (Streptococcus mutans) can be transmitted through saliva — sharing utensils, kissing, or a parent blowing on a child''s food. However, decay requires both bacteria and dietary sugar to progress.

Question 13

How often should I get dental checkups to catch decay early?

Accepted Answer

Every 6 months for most adults and children. High-risk patients (history of frequent cavities, dry mouth, orthodontic appliances) may benefit from 3–4 month checkup intervals.

Question 14

What is an intraoral camera?

Accepted Answer

A small camera that takes high-resolution photos inside your mouth. It helps your Brooklyn dentist detect early decay, cracks, and other issues invisible to the naked eye. It also lets you see exactly what the dentist sees on a screen.

Question 15

Are certain teeth more prone to decay?

Accepted Answer

Molars (back teeth) are most susceptible because of their deep grooves where bacteria collect. The areas between teeth and along the gumline are also high-risk zones. Dental sealants protect molar grooves; flossing protects between teeth.

Question 16

Can dry mouth cause tooth decay?

Accepted Answer

Yes — saliva neutralizes acid and washes away bacteria. Dry mouth (from medications, medical conditions, or mouth breathing) significantly increases decay risk. Your Brooklyn dentist may recommend prescription fluoride, xylitol products, or saliva substitutes.

Question 17

What is the best diet to prevent tooth decay?

Accepted Answer

Limit sugary snacks and drinks, reduce frequency of eating (constant snacking keeps acid levels high), eat cheese and crunchy vegetables that stimulate saliva, drink water between meals, and avoid soda and fruit juice.

Question 18

Is tooth-colored filling material as strong as silver (amalgam)?

Accepted Answer

Modern composites are strong enough for most fillings. For very large restorations on back teeth, porcelain inlays or crowns provide greater durability. Composite technology has improved significantly — today''s materials last 7–12 years.

Question 19

Where can I get affordable cavity treatment in Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

Community health centers in East New York, Brownsville, and Sunset Park offer fillings from $100. Medicaid covers fillings at no cost. Our Top 10 list includes both premium and affordable tooth decay treatment providers.

Question 20

Can I prevent cavities between my teeth?

Accepted Answer

Daily flossing is the only way to remove plaque between teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach. Floss at least once daily — studies show patients who floss have 40% fewer cavities between teeth. A Waterpik is a good supplement but not a replacement for floss.

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