If your tooth’s crown has a cavity, you’ll notice the decay sooner or later. The affected area will either start looking “off, cause major aches, or feel weaker than usual. That said, a cavity between your teeth may seem rather tricky to detect by comparison. There’s no need to worry, though; your Austin dentist has you covered. Just keep reading to learn the signs of a between-teeth cavity and how to prevent such decay.
Cavities Can Form Between Teeth?
Whatever you may have thought, cavities don’t just form on the crowns of teeth. They can also occur in the spaces between your pearly whites.
Decay between two teeth is known as an interproximal cavity. Though rare, it forms when plaque wears away and erodes your enamel. What’s unique is that an interproximal cavity can go unnoticed for longer periods, as it isn’t as easily detectable.
Several factors can increase one’s risk of interproximal cavities. These include not flossing, eating sugary or starchy foods, dry mouth, and more.
How Can You Tell If You Have One?
Once an interproximal cavity forms, you may start noticing the following:
- Toothaches or Tooth Pain – When chewing or biting, you may experience a dull ache or pain from the decayed tooth.
- Tooth Sensitivity – It’s common for an interproximal cavity to cause discomfort when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet foods or drinks.
- Bite-Related Pain – Should you experience pressure-related pain when you bite, you may be suffering from deeper decay or nerve damage.
- Visible Holes or Pits – If you look closely, you may find dark spots, pits, or holes on the surfaces between your teeth.
- Tooth Stains – Often, interproximal cavities will result in brown, black, or white spots on enamel.
- Persistent Bad Breath – Ongoing odor or an unpleasant taste in your mouth can result from trapped food or bacteria near a cavity.
Before you experience the symptoms above, a dentist might detect your cavity on their own. This might happen through an oral exam, the use of dental X-rays, etc.
What Can You Do to Prevent One?
You can prevent interproximal cavities, just as you would other kinds. You simply need to adopt the right habits and practices.
Several tips and tricks can reduce the risk of between-teeth cavities. For instance, use dental floss between your teeth once a day; doing so cleans your mouth’s crevices and cracks. You might also have fewer sugary foods and drinks, thus keeping plaque at bay.
Whether you have a cavity between your teeth or not, keep an eye on your smile. You’ll ensure it stays strong and safe that way!
About the Practice
Westlake Hills Dental Arts is based in Austin, TX. Led by Dr. Rebecca L. Long, our practice proudly excels in restorative, cosmetic, and preventive dental care. We’re ready to help with any oral dilemma, whether you need a dental checkup and cleaning or dental crowns. Our team also offers same-day dental emergency appointments, so we handle urgent problems swiftly! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (512)-328-0155.