re: Dentist issue - Feedback requested

Only seeking treatment when there is pain is bad advice that will often lead to higher costs.

Ask the dentist if they can show you on radiographs or intraoral pictures why they are making a treatment recommendation. If you don't have someone you feel you can trust seek a second opinion.
Doing nothing is always an option but if they have a solid rationale for recommended treatment then doing nothing is typically a poor option.