text: cavity problems? does anyone know the end result of not pulling out a tooth with a cavity in it (apart from the pain)? i dont have dental insurance and i guess its better to die than pay what dentists usually ask for... the prices are crazy, and i cant really go to india right now for the cheaper dentists... if you can, pay the $100-200 to get it filled...if it's infected already, you need it extracted - maybe $120-180.     if you just "live with" the infection, it could affect your immune system and make you sick in other ways.   worst case scenario - the cavity becomes an infection, the infection abcesses, the abcess becomes a cellulits (swelling) which can theoretically, if ignored, swell enough to close off your airway.   take your pick...   along w/ calling welfare, try finding a dental school; this will be cheaper than private dentists...also non-profit clinics exist - i work at one in new hampshire.  i'm amused by the guy who answered "go see your doctor."    a lot of people who can't afford a dentist don't have insurance - dental or medical, so they can't do that either.  at least in the us....