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Caries treatment

Caries (tooth decay) is damage to the tooth structure caused by the interaction of bacteria in the mouth and sugar. If left untreated, caries can progress and lead to pain, inflammation, and even tooth loss. Early detection and treatment of caries is important for maintaining dental health.

Text reviewed by specialist:

dr Eeva-Laura Tipp

Dentist

Published

Text updated

When to see a specialist

  • Dental caries: Treatment of early-stage or advanced caries, as well as recurrent caries developing in a previously treated tooth or beneath the edge of a filling.
  • Damaged or worn filling: Replacement of a loose, cracked, or worn filling to restore the integrity of the tooth.
  • Tooth damaged by caries: Restoration of the tooth’s shape, strength, chewing function, and natural appearance following damage caused by caries.

Common symptoms

  • Bad breath
    Bad breath is a symptom in which a persistent unpleasant odor is emitted from the mouth, which may indicate problems with oral hygiene or diseases.

  • Dental cavity
    A dental cavity, or dental caries, is damage to the hard tissues of the tooth caused by bacteria and acids. It may lead to sensitivity, pain, and toot

  • Tooth sensitivity
    Tooth sensitivity is an uncomfortable or painful sensation in the teeth when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.

  • Toothache
    Toothache is a symptom that manifests as a sharp or throbbing pain in one or more teeth and may worsen when chewing or with temperature changes.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • Bring your ID card or another form of identification with you.
  • Write down or think through your main questions and concerns for the appointment.
  • Consider your oral hygiene habits and diet in advance.

What to expect during your appointment

Consultation and medical history

We discuss the reason for your visit, your expectations, and your medical background.

Dental examination

The dentist examines your teeth and gums to identify the presence and extent of tooth decay. If necessary, X-rays are taken.

Treatment planning

The dentist explains the extent of the caries and suggests suitable treatment options.

Removal of decay

The damaged tooth tissue is removed using a dental drill.

Tooth filling

The removed tissue is replaced with a filling material that restores the shape and function of the tooth.

Aftercare

The dentist provides instructions for oral hygiene and ongoing care. After the procedure, it is recommended to replace your toothbrush head or toothbrush.

Specialists providing this service

On the life long mission

Payment & Appointment Info

Prices

Tallinn

Dental care
Service Price
Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. 20 €
Local anaesthesia 19 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Dental jewellery placement The price of the dental jewellery is added. 47 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Oral hygiene instruction and counselling 23 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Light-curing composite filling Price depends on the size of the filling 65–153 € A visit fee is added to the price.

Tartu, Kuressaare

Dental care
Service Price
Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. 13 €
Local anaesthesia 19 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Dental jewellery placement The price of the dental jewellery is added. 46 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Oral hygiene instruction and counselling 23 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Light-curing composite filling Price depends on the size of the filling 65–145 € A visit fee is added to the price.

Pärnu, Kärdla

Dental care
Service Price
Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. 13 €
Local anaesthesia 16 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Dental jewellery placement The price of the dental jewellery is added. 45 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Oral hygiene instruction and counselling 16 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Light-curing composite filling Price depends on the size of the filling 55–135 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Payment methods

Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Dental Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

For insured adults, the dental care benefit provided by the Tervisekassa (Health Insurance Fund) is deducted from the treatment cost at the clinic.

The Tervisekassa (Health Insurance Fund) covers the dental care for insured patients under 19 years of age.

Referral

You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.

Clinics offering this service

  • Al Mare Dental Clinic

    Al Mare Dental Clinic

    Address: Vabaõhumuuseumi tee 2a, 13522 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726611105

  • Open Järve Dental Clinic

    Järve Dental Clinic

    Address: Lelle 24, 11318 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726776800

  • Kaarli Dental Clinic

    Kaarli Dental Clinic

    Address: Toompuiestee 4, 10142 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726199119

  • Kärdla Dental Office

    Kärdla Dental Office

    Address: Rahu 2, 92414 Kärdla

    Phone number: +37253483349

  • Keila Dental Office

    Keila Dental Office

    Address: Keskväljak 3, 76608 Keila

    Phone number: +372 6591 070

  • Kuressaare Dental Clinic

    Kuressaare Dental Clinic

    Address: Tallinna 16, 93819 Kuressaare

    Phone number: +37251944828

  • KW Dental Clinic

    KW Dental Clinic

    Address: Pärnu mnt 22, 10141 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726619500

  • Maakri Dental Clinic

    Maakri Dental Clinic

    Address: Liivalaia 45, 10145 Tallinn

    Phone number: +3726003300

  • Pärnu Dental Clinic

    Pärnu Dental Clinic

    Address: Väike-Kuke 4b, 80018 Pärnu

    Phone number: +3724459299

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a referral for treating dental caries?

No, you can come for the treatment of dental caries without a referral, on your own initiative.

Is dental caries treatment painful?

Dental caries treatment is usually performed with local anesthesia, making the procedure painless. After the anesthesia wears off, slight sensitivity may occur.

How long does dental caries treatment take?

The duration of treatment depends on the extent and location of the caries. Filling a small cavity usually takes 30–60 minutes.

Is dental caries treatment expensive?

The cost of treatment depends on the extent of the caries and the material used. You can get a more precise price estimate during a dental consultation.

How to prevent dental caries?

To prevent dental caries, regular and thorough oral hygiene is important (brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and using dental floss), a healthy diet (less sugar), and regular dental visits.

Can dental caries return?

Yes. If oral hygiene is insufficient or dietary habits are unhealthy, caries can reappear both next to the treated tooth and on other teeth.

Is it safe to treat dental caries during pregnancy?

Yes. During pregnancy, dental caries treatment is safe and recommended to prevent inflammation that could affect the health of both the mother and the baby.

Are dental caries treated the same way in children as in adults?

Basically yes, but sometimes different filling materials and treatment tactics are used for children’s primary teeth. It is important to start treatment as early as possible.

What to do if I’m afraid of the dentist?

Talk about your fear to the dentist. Many clinics offer various options to alleviate fear, such as tranquilizers or sedation.