Good oral hygiene is the best defense against pain, infection, bad breath, and expensive dental interventions. The difference between a simple filling and a major procedure is often just timing: a minor, early-stage cavity can be filled, whereas one left to progress may require a root canal or extraction. Furthermore, extracting a tooth opens the door to the need for a bridge or an implant, while a large cavity will likely require a crown to save the tooth.

Therefore, the single most effective way to avoid extensive procedures—such as root canals, extractions, and implants—is to schedule regular check-ups. Untreated issues like small cavities, wisdom tooth complications, gum disease, and minor ulcers can quickly escalate into serious problems, including tooth loss and, in rare but critical cases, oral cancer. Early detection and prompt treatment are essential to controlling these risks.