Cavity Between Teeth: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

An interproximal cavity, commonly known as a cavity between teeth, is a type of tooth decay that occurs in the spaces between two adjacent teeth. These hidden spots can often go unnoticed in daily oral hygiene routines, making them a prevalent dental issue. Because they are less visible, cavities between teeth are frequently discovered only during dental checkups or once pain arises.

These cavities are important to detect early since they can worsen quickly and lead to more severe dental problems if left untreated. This article will cover the signs and symptoms to watch for, common causes, and how to treat and prevent cavities between teeth effectively.

Detecting and treating interproximal cavities early can prevent more extensive dental treatments down the road, such as root canals or tooth extractions. Early detection also helps maintain oral health, ensuring your teeth remain strong and healthy for years to come.

What Causes Cavities Between Teeth?

Cavities between teeth, also known as interproximal cavities, are the result of tooth decay between teeth that forms in the tight spaces between adjacent teeth. These types of cavities can be especially harmful because they often go undetected until they are more advanced, potentially leading to pain, infections, or even tooth loss.

How Do They Form?

Interproximal cavities form due to the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on the teeth. When plaque is not properly removed through brushing and flossing, the bacteria in plaque feed on sugars from food, producing acids that erode the tooth enamel. Over time, this erosion weakens the enamel, causing decay to develop between the teeth. Below are the causes of cavities between teeth.

Primary Causes

1. Plaque Buildup: If plaque is not adequately removed daily through consistent brushing and flossing and regular cleanings by a dental professional, it can lead to decay between teeth.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene: Infrequent or not brushing and flossing, allow bacteria to settle in the hard-to-reach spaces between teeth, making these areas more prone to cavities.
3. Dietary Factors: Frequent consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks increases the risk of cavities between teeth, as these foods provide fuel for bacteria that produce enamel-eroding acids.

Eye-Opening Statistics

• More than 1 in 4 adults (26%) in the U.S. have untreated cavities, showing the importance of regular dental visits and proper oral hygiene. (Source: CDC)
• Children aged 5 to 19 years from low-income families are twice as likely (25%) to have cavities compared to those from higher-income families (11%). (Source: CDC) This highlights the need for accessible dental care and education on preventive measures for families from all backgrounds.

See our guide for more information on keeping your child’s teeth clean. Additionally, avoid common pitfalls in oral hygiene by learning about brushing mistakes to avoid.

Signs and Symptoms of a Cavity Between Teeth

Small cavities between teeth can be challenging to spot early on because they develop in areas that are difficult to see. However, recognizing certain symptoms can help you catch an interproximal cavity before it worsens. If you are wondering what cavities between teeth look like, here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for.

• Pain or Discomfort: A persistent toothache or sudden sharp pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure, can be an indicator of an early cavity between teeth. If you’re experiencing discomfort in a specific area, it’s essential to have it checked by a dentist.

• Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages is a common sign of decay. This sensitivity may feel like a sharp twinge or prolonged discomfort and is often an early warning sign of cavities.

• Visible Holes or Dark Spots: If a cavity progresses, you may be able to see visible signs of decay, such as small holes, pits, or dark spots on the surface of your teeth. These visual cues often appear after the cavity has advanced and started to erode the enamel significantly.

• Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: Cavities caused by bacterial buildup can lead to persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth, even after brushing and flossing.

• Asymptomatic Cavities: It’s important to note that not all cavities present symptoms, especially in their early stages. Some cavities may go unnoticed until they are detected by a dentist during a routine exam or on an X-ray.

Early detection of cavities is crucial to prevent more severe dental concerns, so regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential. If you’re concerned about potential cavities, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment for a dental examination.

Diagnosis of Cavities Between Teeth

Cavities often require a thorough dental exam for accurate diagnosis. Due to their location, these cavities can be harder to detect than those on the biting surface of teeth. Here’s what patients can expect when a dentist is checking for cavities.

• Visual Examination: During a dental exam, your dentist will inspect your teeth and gums closely, looking for signs of cavities between teeth such as decay, discoloration, or damage. While cavities may not always be visible to the naked eye, this examination helps identify any apparent issues and may provide clues if further investigation is needed.
• X-rays for Hidden Cavities: X-rays are crucial for diagnosing cavities between teeth. Because these cavities develop in the tight spaces between teeth, they often remain hidden from visual inspections alone. Bitewing X-rays are typically used to detect decay in these hard-to-reach areas and can reveal the extent and depth of a cavity that may not be visible otherwise. This imaging is painless and helps the dentist determine the best course of treatment.

How to Know If You Have a Cavity Between Teeth

If you suspect you may have a cavity between your teeth, scheduling a dental exam is the best way to confirm its presence. Here’s a step-by-step look at the diagnostic process:

• Step 1: Dental History and Symptoms: Your dentist will start by asking about any symptoms you might be experiencing, such as sensitivity to hot or cold foods, pain while chewing, or general discomfort. They may also inquire about your oral hygiene habits and dietary choices.
• Step 2: Clinical Examination: The dentist will then perform a visual examination of your mouth, using a small mirror and possibly a dental explorer to check for any visible signs of cavities. They will look for dark spots, holes, and irregularities on the surface of your teeth.
• Step 3: X-ray Imaging: If your dentist suspects an interproximal cavity, they will likely recommend an X-ray to get a clearer picture of your teeth. The X-ray will highlight areas of decay that are not visible during a standard exam, helping to identify cavities between teeth accurately. This imaging also assists in assessing how far the decay has progressed.

Treatment Options for Cavities Between Teeth

Now that we have discussed the causes, let’s review how to treat cavities between teeth. The treatment approach depends on how advanced the decay is, and early detection plays a critical role in determining the most suitable treatment. Here are the primary treatment options based on the progression of the cavity.

Early-Stage Treatment: Remineralization

When a cavity is detected at its earliest stages, remineralization can sometimes halt its progression. This treatment focuses on rebuilding the enamel using various fluoride treatments, such as daily use of fluoride toothpaste, mouth rinses, or professional treatments provided by a dentist. Improved oral hygiene, such as brushing twice a day, flossing, and limiting sugary foods, is essential for this process to be effective. Remineralization helps harden the enamel and may reverse or slow the progression of early cavities before they require more invasive procedures.

Filling Cavities Between Teeth

If the cavity has progressed beyond the initial stages, filling it is often the most effective treatment. Dental fillings help to restore the tooth’s shape and function and alleviate or prevent tooth pain. The process typically involves:

1. Removing Decay: The dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth.
2. Preparing the Tooth: Once the decay is removed, the cavity will be cleaned and shaped for the filling material.
3. Filling Placement: A material like composite resin, which matches the natural color of teeth, is used to fill the cavity.
4. Hardening and Shaping: The filling is hardened using a special light, and then it is shaped and polished to match the tooth’s natural contour.

Composite resin is commonly used for interproximal cavities because it blends well with natural teeth and bonds effectively to the tooth structure. This treatment prevents further decay and restores the tooth’s appearance and function.

Advanced Treatment: Root Canal and Crowns

When a cavity progresses to a more advanced stage, affecting the pulp or inner tissue of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary. This treatment is more involved and includes:

1. Removing Infected Pulp: The dentist removes the decayed pulp and cleans the inside of the tooth.
2. Sealing the Tooth: The empty canal is filled and sealed to prevent future infection.
3. Restoring the Tooth with a Crown: In many cases, a crown is placed over the tooth to restore its shape and strength, especially if a significant portion of the tooth was removed due to decay.

Root canals help save the natural tooth from extraction, and crowns protect the remaining tooth structure, restoring function and aesthetics.

Get Professional and Affordable Dental Care for Cavity Treatment at TrueCare

When it comes to diagnosing and treating cavities between teeth, professional dental care is essential. At TrueCare, our team of experienced dental professionals is dedicated to helping you and your family maintain oral health and prevent complications. Early detection is key to managing interproximal cavities effectively, preventing them from progressing to more severe stages that may require advanced treatments like root canals or crowns.

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for catching cavities early, providing a tailored treatment plan, and offering preventive advice to avoid future decay. TrueCare provides comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages, ensuring affordable and high-quality services in San Diego and Riverside.

Learn more about our dental care in San Diego & Riverside and pediatric dental care to find the right support for your family’s dental needs. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms or want to establish a dental routine to prevent cavities, schedule an appointment with us at TrueCare today.

Ready to take control of your oral health? Explore our Dental Services and let our team help you achieve a healthier smile!

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