Tooth decay might start off small, but when it’s left untreated, it doesn’t take long for it to cause bigger problems within the mouth. What begins as minor enamel damage can gradually progress deeper into the tooth, leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss if ignored for too long. Understanding what the symptoms of untreated tooth decay actually look and feel like can help you recognise when it’s time to see a dentist before more serious complications develop.
How does untreated tooth decay develop?
Tooth decay occurs when the enamel, which is the hard outer layer of your teeth, begins to break down due to acids produced by bacteria. These bacteria feed on the sugars and starches left behind after eating or drinking, forming plaque, a sticky film that clings to the surface of the teeth. When plaque isn’t properly removed, it starts to erode the enamel, eventually creating a small hole known as a cavity.
At first, this process might not cause any pain or visible damage, which is why decay can often go unnoticed in its early stages. However, as it progresses, the decay can reach the softer layers underneath the enamel, the dentine and, later, the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Once decay reaches these inner layers, the symptoms tend to become much more noticeable and uncomfortable.
What are the first signs that decay may be present?
Early decay often starts quietly. You might notice a dull ache or sensitivity when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods, or a faint discolouration on the surface of your tooth. Some people describe it as a mild twinge that comes and goes, rather than a constant pain.
White or brown spots on the enamel are another early indicator that minerals are being lost from the tooth surface. At this point, the decay is still in a stage where it could potentially be reversed with proper oral care and fluoride treatment. Once a cavity forms, though, the damage becomes permanent and will require treatment such as a filling.
If you start to notice food getting trapped in certain areas more often, or you can feel a slight roughness when you run your tongue across a tooth, these could also be early clues that decay is starting to take hold.
How does tooth decay progress when it isn’t treated?
As decay deepens, it begins to move past the enamel and into the dentine. The dentine is softer than enamel and contains small tubes that lead to the pulp, so pain and sensitivity tend to worsen at this stage. You might feel a sharper discomfort when biting or chewing, and cold drinks or sweet foods can trigger lingering pain rather than brief sensitivity.
If the decay is still left untreated, bacteria can eventually reach the pulp, which is where the tooth’s nerve lives. Once this happens, the pain can become severe and persistent, often throbbing or radiating into the jaw or ear. In many cases, people report pain that intensifies at night or when lying down, as changes in blood flow can increase pressure around the inflamed nerve.
This level of decay can also cause visible holes or dark areas on the tooth surface. You might notice a change in the tooth’s colour, ranging from yellow to brown or even black, as well as bad breath that doesn’t seem to go away, caused by bacterial activity in the decaying tissue.
What happens when the infection spreads deeper into the tooth?
Once bacteria reach the pulp, they can cause an infection known as pulpitis. This condition can lead to swelling inside the tooth, but since there’s limited space within the pulp chamber, the pressure builds up, causing significant pain. If the infection continues, it can spread beyond the tooth into the surrounding tissues, forming a dental abscess.
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms as the body tries to fight off the infection. Symptoms include intense, throbbing pain, swelling around the face or jaw, and sometimes a fever. The affected tooth might also feel loose or raised, as if it’s being pushed out of its socket. In more advanced cases, the abscess can cause the gums to become red and swollen, and you may notice a small pimple-like bump on the gum that can release fluid with a foul taste if it bursts.
An untreated abscess is not something that will heal on its own, it’s a sign that the infection has reached a serious stage. Without dental intervention, the infection can spread further into the jawbone or even into other parts of the body through the bloodstream, posing wider health risks.
Can untreated tooth decay affect surrounding teeth and gums?
Untreated decay doesn’t only impact one tooth. When bacteria remain active in the mouth, they can easily spread to neighbouring teeth, leading to new cavities forming nearby. The affected tooth can also contribute to gum inflammation, particularly if food debris becomes trapped in the cavity or if the infection spreads below the gumline.
In cases of severe decay, the tooth structure can weaken to the point that it starts to break apart. This can make brushing and flossing difficult, increasing the risk of plaque building up in surrounding areas. Over time, the ongoing bacterial activity can also contribute to gum disease, which further affects the stability of nearby teeth.
What treatment is usually required once decay has advanced?
Treatment for tooth decay depends on how far it has progressed. In the early stages, when only the enamel is affected, a fluoride treatment or minor restoration may be enough to stop further damage. Once a cavity has formed, it will usually need to be cleaned out and restored with a filling to protect the tooth structure.
If the decay has reached the pulp, a root canal treatment may be required to remove the infected tissue and seal the tooth from further bacterial invasion. In cases where the tooth is too damaged to save, extraction might be the only option. After an extraction, replacing the missing tooth with a crown, bridge, or implant can help maintain function and prevent shifting of neighbouring teeth.
Dentists will also often focus on preventing further decay through cleaning, fluoride applications, and advice on home care, since one area of decay can sometimes indicate a higher risk for others developing.
Oasis Dental Studio: Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne and Pottsville
If you’ve started to notice any signs of discomfort, sensitivity, or visible damage to your teeth, it’s best to schedule a dental check-up. One of our qualified dentists can assess the condition of your teeth, identify any areas of decay, and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Please contact our team at Oasis Dental Studio to book a consultation at our Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne or Pottsville locations.
