Why this question comes up so often
Most customers are not looking for a more complicated repair than necessary. They want to know whether the dent can be corrected while keeping the original paint. That is why this question is so common for both hail damage and everyday dents.
When the answer may be yes
If the dent is not too severe and the paint is still in good shape, paintless dent repair may allow the metal to be reshaped without repainting the panel. That can be a very appealing outcome for customers who want to preserve the vehicle's original finish.
When another repair path may be needed
If the paint is cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged, or if the dent is especially sharp or stretched, a no-paint repair may not be the best fit. The right answer depends on the actual condition of the damage.
What to do next
If you are unsure whether your dent may be repairable without paint, getting it looked at is the fastest way to find out. That gives you a real answer based on the damage in front of you, not just a general rule.