Dental decay that has not yet reached the pulp. Without treatment, decay progresses deeper, eventually leading to pulp infection and root canal or extraction.
What typically happens with each treatment choice over time, based on clinical evidence — not individual cases.
Decay commonly progresses deeper into dentin.
What it means: Increased risk of pulp involvement.
Deep decay frequently requires root canal or extraction.
What it means: Likely need for endodontic therapy.
Successful restoration with no recurrent decay in most cases.
What it means: Tooth preserved; normal function restored.
Restoration remains intact without re-treatment for most teeth.
What it means: Occasional touch-ups or replacement possible.
Public outcomes are shown only where the direction is supported by high-tier evidence — Cochrane systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, and meta-analyses. We report the untreated ("do nothing") branch alongside active treatment. Each figure is an evidence-informed, directional estimate consistent with the peer-reviewed literature and professional-body guidance (Cochrane Oral Health, ADA, AAE, AAP, AAOMS) — not a number quoted from one specific study — and is reviewed by our Benchmark Council. Estimates are population-level and may not apply to your individual case.