No, cavities won’t go away on their own. A cavity is not going to stop once it has started. If left untreated, then there is a higher risk of infection. Only cavities at the pre-cavity stage can be treated and with proper maintenance these can be prevented from forming cavities.

The damage to the tooth’s enamel caused by the bacteria which causes demineralization in that area is known as Pre-cavity. It cannot be seen in radiographs.

Only dentist can identify a pre-cavity because it is the initial stage of development of caries and doesn’t cause any food lodgment or pain.

Fluoride application at dentists is suggested to obstruct the cavity formation.

There are three types of cavities: – Smooth surface cavities: They occur on the smooth sides of the teeth. – Pit and fissure cavities: They occur on the occlusal surface of the teeth. – Root cavities: They occur on the surface of the roots.

These are also known as interproximal cavities. They appear between two teeth and can cause damage to more than one tooth. These are caused due to food lodgment in interproximal areas and poor oral hygiene. These cavities are also known as Hidden cavities which are very troublesome causing both crown and root cavities. There is a higher chance of gum recession and bone resorption in the long-term with these types of cavities.

If a cavity is left untreated then there is a higher risk of infection. The infection spreads to the pulp of the tooth which further spreads to the root apex and causes abscess and even causes the underlying bone destruction. This also causes spread of caries and damage to the remaining teeth.

If it is a shallow cavity then it can be treated with fillings but if it is a deep cavity and persistent pain occurs then it undergoes root canal procedure. When the cavity involving enamel and dentine left untreated it progress to the pulp which causes pain. Once the pain starts, it will become a case of needing a root canal.

Brush twice daily
Rinse after every meal
Avoid sticky, sugary foods
Visit to your dentist every 6 months