If you have a cavity on the chewing surface of one of your teeth, you might be able to see that spot of decay in the mirror. But what if the cavity is between your teeth? It might be virtually invisible to the naked eye, and without treatment, it could easily grow and worsen until it becomes a major problem. How can you recognize and prevent cavities between teeth? This guide explains.
Recognizing Cavities Between Teeth
The easiest and most reliable way to know if you have a cavity between your teeth (also called an interproximal cavity) is to visit your dentist regularly. A bitewing X-ray can allow your dental team to diagnose the problem with confidence so you can receive appropriate treatment right away.
Of course, there are some signs that you can look for on your own. You might have a cavity between your teeth if:
- One of your teeth is experiencing intermittent sensitivity. This happens because as a cavity deepens, it exposes the inner layers of the tooth to outside stimuli.
- Your floss often gets caught in a particular spot. Your floss should glide easily between your teeth. If it always seems to get stuck in a certain place, you may have a small interproximal cavity.
- You have other symptoms of dental decay. Pain when you bite down and discoloration are other signs that a cavity may be present.
Preventing Interproximal Cavities
If you develop a cavity between your teeth, your dentist can provide treatment to get your oral health back on track. But wouldn’t it be better to prevent this issue from occurring in the first place? Here are some tips to that end:
- Stick to good brushing and flossing habits. Brushing twice a day is extremely important, but unfortunately, your toothbrush might not be able to reach into all those tight interproximal spaces. Be sure to floss once a day to clean out debris from those hard-to-reach areas.
- Use fluoride. Fluoridated toothpaste, possibly along with a fluoridated mouth rinse, can help to keep your teeth strong.
- Mind your diet. Try to limit your intake of sugary items, including soda, sticky candies, baked treats, sweetened coffee, and more. You should also eat plenty of fresh fruits and veggies because they can increase saliva production and help you to enjoy a clean mouth.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Getting a checkup and cleaning every six months can do much to prevent cavities.
Interproximal cavities can be a sneaky problem. Use the tips in this article to maintain a strong and healthy smile!
Meet the Practice
Drs. Bryan Griffith and Alex Hartgrove work together to provide our community with gentle, top-quality dental care. If you suspect you have a cavity, or you would like our team’s help to prevent dental decay, we are ready to serve you. Contact our Prestonsburg office at 606-874-9311.