What can result from untreated dental caries?

Untreated dental caries can lead to a progression to pulpal infection because the decay can penetrate deeper into the tooth. Initially, caries begin as enamel damage, but if left untreated, they can progress through the dentin and reach the pulp chamber, which contains the tooth's nerves and blood vessels. Once the decay reaches the pulp, it can cause pulpitis, an infection or inflammation of the pulp. This can lead to severe pain and, if not addressed, can necessitate more invasive treatments, such as root canal therapy or even tooth extraction.

This understanding underscores the importance of regular dental check-ups and prompt treatment of carious lesions to prevent complications that can arise from untreated decay. The other options do not accurately reflect the serious consequences of untreated caries. For instance, tooth discoloration is a cosmetic issue rather than a direct medical complication, decreased sensitivity is generally not associated with untreated caries, and removal of tartar buildup is a separate dental treatment that does not directly tie into the consequences of untreated decay.