How Do You Know if You Have a Cavity Between Your Teeth?

Sometimes it can be easy to tell that you have a cavity. You may have a toothache, sensitivity to sweet foods, or even a brown spot forming on the surface of the tooth. But unfortunately, it’s not always that straightforward. Cavities can form anywhere on the surface of your teeth, even in between your teeth. Known as interproximal cavities, not only can these be harder to detect, but they can also be a challenge to prevent, too. Here’s how to tell if you may have decay between your teeth, and how to stop it from happening in the future.

Diagnosing Interproximal Cavities

Interproximal cavities can be difficult to diagnose. That’s because they’re found in between your teeth, where you can’t see them, and sometimes you may not even feel them. The easiest way to spot this type of decay is via X-ray, which your dentist will take at your regular, biannual exam and cleaning appointments. You may also notice that your tooth hurts, is sensitive to sweets, or painful when you floss, even if there are no visible signs of decay.

Treating Interproximal Cavities

Thankfully, these types of cavities are easily treatable with a filling or crown, just like a cavity on a visible surface. They may be a little harder to reach, but they are still equally important to repair, as they can eventually lead to tooth loss if they get worse.

Preventing Interproximal Cavities

Interproximal cavities are a bit more difficult to prevent because they form on the surfaces between your teeth. Thankfully, dental floss can help reduce your risk of developing them. In fact, flossing is a safe and effective way to clean approximately 30 percent of the surface of your teeth that your toothbrush can’t access.

If you are noticing a high number of interproximal cavities, this could be a sign that you need to floss more frequently. Ideally, you should be doing this once a day, preferably after you have finished eating for the night. If once a day is not enough, consider flossing after each meal or at each brushing.

Remember, interproximal cavities are preventable with a combination of excellent brushing and flossing habits, as well as regular visits to the dentist, so be sure to take good care of your teeth and you’ll have plenty to smile about for years to come!

About Dr. DiGrazia

Dr. DawnMarie DiGrazia earned her DMD at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 2002, after beginning her career right here at Somerset Dental Arts in 1993 as a dental assistant! Today, Dr. DiGrazia is an active member of the Academy of General Dentistry and New Jersey Dental Association and is Invisalign certified. She places the utmost importance on education for both her and for her patients, making sure they understand the connection between oral and overall health.

If you have a toothache or a cavity that needs attention, don’t wait for it to get worse. Schedule an appointment with Somerset Dental Arts today by visiting our website or calling us directly at 908-722-2999.