Most people will have to deal with tooth decay at some point in their lives; in fact, about 92% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have already had at least one cavity. But did you realize that sometimes decay can occur in places that you can’t easily see? Cavities between the teeth are known as interproximal cavities, and it’s important to know the signs that you may have one – as well as what you can do to prevent them from forming in the first place.
What Exactly is a Cavity?
A cavity is a hole that forms in the tooth as a result of decay. They form when the bacteria in your mouth produce acids that gradually eat through the enamel. Since the teeth can’t repair themselves after they’ve been damaged, cavities only get bigger over time. Eventually, the decay may reach the pulp at the center of the tooth, which can lead to a very painful infection.
How Do You Know If You Have a Cavity Between Your Teeth?
Obviously, it can be very difficult to know if you have an interproximal cavity just by looking. As such, the most reliable way to find out is to visit your dentist in Atlanta. They can check for signs of decay that you might not have caught on your own; sometimes they might also take X-rays of your mouth, which can reveal tooth decay in hard-to-see areas including between your teeth.
There are also several symptoms that could mean you have an unseen cavity, including:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth decay gradually wears down the enamel and exposes the inner nerves. This causes the tooth to become more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
- Toothache: Chronic pain or occasional sharp pain in your tooth is often a telltale sign that you have a cavity.
- Pus: If you notice any pus around the tooth in question, it could mean that an abscess has formed due to your cavity. An abscess is an extremely serious dental problem, so if you think you might have one, you need to make an appointment immediately.
Not everyone will experience all of the symptoms above, but any one of them on their own is a good reason to call your dentist.
How Can You Prevent Cavities Between the Teeth?
Brushing alone won’t get rid of any bacteria building up between your teeth. That’s why you should make flossing a daily part of your oral hygiene regimen. Dental floss can help keep the crevices between your teeth clean, thus lowering the risk of interproximal cavities.
It’s also a good idea to stay away from sugary treats that can contribute to tooth decay. Instead, try eating more smile-friendly foods like cheese, yogurt, crunchy vegetables, and leafy greens. The right kind of diet can go a long way towards helping you keep your smile as a whole safe.
In short, aside from being harder to see, interproximal cavities are not much different from regular cavities; they’re certainly just as big a threat to your oral health. If you think that you might have one, it’s in your best interest to call your dentist right away so that they can prevent the decay from spreading any further.
About the Author
Dr. Hamilton Vason is a proud native of Atlanta. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1980 from Emory Dental School, and he served as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Dental Corps. At his current practice, Vason Family Dentistry, he offers crowns, root canal therapy, and other possible solutions for tooth decay. If you’re worried that you might have a cavity between your teeth, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Vason by visiting his website or calling (404) 367-9799.