What is a recognized consequence of cheilitis if left untreated?

Cheilitis, which is inflammation of the lips, can lead to further inflammation if it remains untreated. This happens because the initial inflammation may cause irritation and allow for the introduction or proliferation of infection or other irritants. Ongoing inflammation can exacerbate the condition, potentially leading to more severe symptoms or complications, such as cracking, peeling, or secondary infections.

In contrast, while decreased range of motion, improved oral hygiene, and bone loss around the teeth relate to various oral health issues, they do not directly correlate with the untreated consequences of cheilitis. Decreased range of motion typically involves joint or muscular issues, improved oral hygiene would not be a logical outcome of untreated cheilitis, and bone loss around teeth is more associated with periodontal disease rather than a direct consequence of cheilitis. Thus, the progression of existing inflammation is indeed the recognized outcome if cheilitis goes untreated.