Symptoms

What are the risks of not treating a cavity?

Reviewed by Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist). Last reviewed November 3, 2026.

Status: Approved

Short answer: A cavity doesn't heal once there's a hole. MedlinePlus says untreated decay can destroy the inside of the tooth (the pulp), which means more extensive treatment or losing the tooth. It also lists abscess, a fractured tooth, bone infection and tooth loss as complications. Facial swelling or fever needs care right away.

How a cavity progresses

NIDCR explains that early decay often causes no symptoms. As it advances, it can cause a toothache or sensitivity to sweets, heat or cold. If the tooth becomes infected, an abscess, or pocket of pus, may form, causing pain, facial swelling and fever.

Possible complications

MedlinePlus lists:

  • discomfort or pain
  • a fractured tooth
  • being unable to bite down on the tooth
  • a tooth abscess
  • tooth sensitivity
  • infection of the bone
  • bone loss and tooth loss

MedlinePlus also notes that decay reaching the pulp requires more extensive treatment, or possibly removal of the tooth.

Why early treatment matters

NIDCR says that in its earliest stage, before a cavity forms, decay can sometimes be stopped or reversed with fluoride. Once there's a cavity, a dentist needs to repair it. See Can you reverse a cavity?

When it's urgent

The ADA says an untreated abscess can lead to a serious infection in the jaw bone, teeth and surrounding tissues. See What is a dental abscess?

At Indy Smile Group

We check for decay at every exam and do composite (tooth-colored) fillings, crowns and root canals in-house at all three offices. We're in-network with Delta Dental, Anthem, Humana, Liberty Dental and CareSource. Through the Connection Dental and Zelis networks we're also in-network with many PPO plans from Cigna, MetLife, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Ameritas, Principal, Sun Life, GEHA and UMR. We accept Indiana Medicaid and Medicare dental plans. Coverage depends on your plan. We check your benefits and give you a written estimate before any treatment, including emergency treatment. See our dental crown pages for Fishers, Carmel and North Indy.

Next step

Ready to talk it through with a dentist? Book online or call the office closest to you.

Frequently asked questions

Can a cavity go away on its own?
Once a hole has formed, no. NIDCR says only early decay, before a cavity forms, can be stopped or reversed.

How do I know if I have a cavity?
Often you can't tell. MedlinePlus says cavities usually don't hurt unless they grow very large. Contact your dentist if you have tooth pain or see dark spots on your teeth.

Is a cavity an emergency?
Usually not, but swelling, fever or severe pain needs prompt care.

Sources

  1. MedlinePlus – Dental cavities
  2. NIDCR (NIH) – Tooth Decay
  3. ADA MouthHealthy – Abscess

Last reviewed: November 3, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist)

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