How to Tell If There’s a Cavity Between Your Teeth

Did you know that 92% of adults will experience tooth decay? Cavities often occur on the chewing surfaces of molars because it can be difficult to remove food residue and plaque from the deep crevices. However, cavities can occur on any exposed tooth surface, including between your teeth. Known as interproximal cavities, they can be very difficult to detect until complications arise, like a toothache. Here’s how to determine if you have a cavity between two teeth.

Interproximal Cavities

Your toothbrush is the most frequently used item you have at home to prevent cavities. However, your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere, like between teeth. Food residue and plaque buildup harbor harmful oral bacteria that can erode your enamel slowly. Tooth decay can be nearly impossible to detect without an X-ray if it occurs between your teeth, but there may be signs, like:

• Tooth Sensitivity: Early stages of tooth decay can cause sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. You can also experience discomfort with acidic or sugary foods and drinks. Inhaling cold air quickly might also cause uncomfortable sensations.
• Frayed Floss: If your floss frays when cleaning between two specific teeth, it can indicate a cavity.
• Toothache: If decay reaches the inner layers of your tooth, it can cause an infection of the pulp. This can cause a throbbing toothache that won’t go away without treatment.

Treating Interproximal Cavities

Your dentist can detect interproximal cavities during routine cleanings and checkups using an X-ray. Depending on the severity of your cavity, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan, which may include:

• Fluoride Gel: A fluoride gel can promote the recalcification of your enamel to reverse the early stages of tooth decay.
• Filling: A tooth-colored filling can be used to treat a cavity using a material that will blend in with your enamel.
• Root Canal: If your tooth has become infected, a root canal will be necessary to extract the pulp.

Delaying treatment can cause you to lose your tooth. If tooth decay becomes too severe, extraction will be your only option. 

Preventing Cavities Between Teeth

Although cavities are common, they are almost 100% preventable with a few simple tips:

• Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth for 2 minutes at least twice a day, if not after every meal.
• Floss Every Day: Brushing alone can leave up to 40% of your teeth surfaces uncleaned. Commit to flossing your teeth every day to remove the buildup your toothbrush can’t reach.
• Limit Sugars: Moderate your consumption of sugars and starches, which feed cavity-causing bacteria.
• Visit Your Dentist: Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They can detect early stages of decay to intervene before it progresses.

If you suspect a cavity between teeth, it’s nothing to ignore. Your dentist will get you into the office quickly to restore a healthy smile.

About Dr. Marco Caballeros

Dr. Caballeros earned his dental degree from the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry and has continued his education in cosmetic and general dentistry. He combines the latest technologies and techniques to create healthy, confident smiles. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (469) 447-9656.