What is a Cavity and what will happen if I don have it filled?
A cavity is the result of an active infection (called Caries) by harmful oral bacteria. If a cavity is not detected and treated, the bacteria destroy their way through the various tooth layers and eventually enter the dental pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels and nerve endings. Through the pulp, the bacteria invade and spread into the bone around the teeth and the gums and facial soft tissues. At this point, there is usually pain, but not always. Some swelling may also be apparent. When the cavity has gone this far, the problem is now more of a medical problem, i.e. an infection of the face and jaws, rather than just a dental problem.
