Dentists differ on cavity treatment and may not recommend immediate fillings

13 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 4

Some dentists may suggest prescription toothpaste or a filling instead of a crown, while newer and older graduates can produce markedly different treatment plans.
Experts say early decay limited to enamel, before reaching dentin, can be a judgment call rather than an automatic reason to drill.
The report says training, personal philosophy and economics can shape recommendations, making second opinions useful for patients weighing painful and costly dental procedures.

If painless 'no-drill' dentistry now exists, why is the drill still the go-to tool for early cavities?

Is the dental business model preventing wider use of cheaper, less invasive treatments for cavities?