Reviewed By Dr. Tyler N Davis, DMD
Reading Time: 3 minutes
As dentists, we are often asked, ‘Can you get a cavity between your teeth?’ The answer is a resounding yes. Interproximal cavities–“flossing cavities”–as they are technically known, form in the spaces between teeth and are often overlooked until they become a significant issue.
In this blog post, we will explain what interproximal cavities are, how to prevent them and options for treating them.
Table of Contents
Understanding Interproximal Cavities
Think of regular cavities as potholes on the main road of your teeth – they’re easy to spot and often caused by sweet snacks and not brushing enough. These cavities usually form on the flat surfaces of your teeth that you can easily see and feel.
Now, interproximal cavities are like hidden alleys between your teeth. They sneakily develop in the gaps where your toothbrush can’t reach. They start small, just like regular cavities, but they can get worse without you noticing because they’re hidden. This is why flossing is so crucial – it’s like a detective finding clues in those hidden alleys, keeping your teeth healthy all around!
Key Takeaway
Understanding and addressing interproximal cavities, which develop between teeth, is crucial for dental health. Effective prevention through regular brushing, flossing, dental check-ups, and timely treatment are key to maintaining a healthy, cavity-free smile.
Symptoms and Detection
Wondering if you have a cavity hiding between your teeth? Here’s what to look out for:
- Sensitivity: Do hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks make your teeth uncomfortable? That’s a common sign.
- Pain while chewing: If it hurts when you bite down or chew, it might be a cavity.
- Discoloration or holes: Keep an eye out for any dark spots or small holes between your teeth.
We use X-rays and a thorough physical examination to spot these tricky cavities. Remember, these symptoms can be subtle at first, so regular check-ups are key to catching them early!
Treatment Options
The approach to treating interproximal cavities really depends on how early we catch them.
- Early stage: Caught a cavity early? Great! Dental cleanings and fluoride treatments can help to strengthen the tooth enamel and stop decay.
- Fillings: If the cavity’s a bit bigger, fillings are the way to go. They’ll fill in the gap and restore your tooth’s shape.
- Crowns: For more serious cases where the cavity is larger, a crown might be needed to cover and protect the tooth.
- Root canals: If the cavity reaches the tooth’s nerve, a root canal might be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
The sooner we catch these cavities, the easier and less invasive the treatment. That’s why regular check-ups are so important!
7 Steps for Prevention
Maintaining a cavity-free smile is easier than you might think! Here’s how you can keep those interproximal cavities away:
- Thorough brushing: Brush for two minutes, twice daily. Pay special attention to all surfaces of your teeth, including those hard-to-reach back areas.
- Flossing is essential: Daily flossing is non-negotiable. It removes hidden plaque and food particles between your teeth.
- Healthy diet choices: Limit sugary and acidic foods. Opt for teeth-friendly options like cheese, nuts, and leafy greens.
- Regular dentist visits: Biannual check-ups and cleanings are crucial. Your dentist can offer personalized advice and catch issues early.
- Fluoride is your friend: Use fluoride toothpaste and consider a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your teeth.
- Chew sugar-free gum: Chew gum after meals to increase saliva production. Saliva helps to clean your teeth naturally.
- Stay hydrated: Drink water throughout the day to wash away food particles and bacteria.
By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you significantly reduce the risk of developing cavities and ensure a healthier smile for years to come!
Let Us Help You Stay Cavity Free!
At Power Road Dental Care, our commitment is to help you prevent and treat these hidden cavities. With a combination of home dental care and regular check-ups, we aim to keep your smile bright and healthy.
Whether you’re noticing symptoms or just due for a routine visit, we’re here to support your dental health journey.
If you are in the East Valley and are searching for ‘dental exam near me’ or ‘dentist in Mesa, AZ’, we can help. To book an appointment, call (480) 664-1438 or complete the online booking form.
FAQs
How do cavities form between teeth?
Plaque and bacteria build up in between the teeth. Plaque eats away at the enamel and eventually causes cavities. Flossing at least once a day is the best way to prevent interproximal cavities.
Are cavities between teeth more serious than other cavities?
They can be, as they’re harder to detect and can progress significantly before being noticed.
What are the symptoms of a cavity between the teeth?
Look out for sensitivity to temperature changes, pain during chewing, and visible holes or discoloration.
How are cavities between the teeth treated?
Treatments range from fluoride gels and fillings to crowns or root canals, depending on the cavity’s size and severity.