06/15/2026
A cavity doesn't go from nothing to root canal overnight. But it moves faster than most people expect β and the cost jumps at each stage.
Here's the actual progression:
Stage 1 β Enamel decay: No pain. Not visible. Caught only on X-ray.
β Treatment: Small composite filling. One appointment. $150β$300.
Stage 2 β Into the dentin: Occasional sensitivity to cold or sweet. Getting visible.
β Treatment: Larger filling or small crown. $300β$800.
Stage 3 β Pulp involvement: Throbbing pain. Sensitivity to heat. Possible abscess.
β Treatment: Root canal + crown. $1,200β$2,500+.
Stage 4 β Non-restorable: Infection spreading, structural failure.
β Treatment: Extraction, bone graft, implant. $3,000β$5,000+.
Stage 1 is the entire preventive care argument. That's where a routine checkup catches it β where it costs $150 and 45 minutes. Every stage after that costs more money, more time, and more chair discomfort.
Canyon Gate Dental is accepting new patients in Springville, Orem, and Utah County.
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