Sneaky Spots: The Signs of a Cavity Between Your Teeth

You might know that cavities are one of the most prevalent oral health issues out there. They can develop in kids and adults alike, but they can show up on any surface of a tooth. That means the part you chew with, but also between your teeth! When they show up in the latter places, it might be hard to tell if you have one, so here’s what you need to know about decay in these areas.

What Does a Cavity Between My Teeth Feel Like?

As was said above, cavities are commonly found on the crowns of teeth and even more so on the molars. However, they can be sneaky and pop up in the interproximal spaces, which simply means between your teeth. These might be harder to notice if you don’t know what to watch out for, so here are signs you should keep in mind:

• Floss thread consistently snags against a certain tooth.
• A noticeably dark spot.
• Pain when you chew and bite.
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, and even overly sweet items.

How Will My Dentist Treat My Cavity?

If you have any of these symptoms, then you should visit your dentist right away. A cavity may start minor, but it can progress and advance into a serious issue. You will be able to catch the problem early, letting you get a simple filling to restore it. Your dentist will remove the damaged portions and then use tooth-colored composite resin to fill them. A larger decay may need a crown to fully restore both the look and function.

What Can I Do to Avoid Cavities in the Future?

When you get the treatment you deserve, you should try your best to avoid developing another cavity! Thankfully, it can be an easy thing to do. Here are simple tips you can add to your routine:

• Brush for two full minutes with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. This will remove plaque while also fortifying your enamel against decay.
• Floss once every day to clean bacteria out between your teeth and under your gumline.
• Eat sugary foods in moderation and drink plenty of water to wash away lingering particles.

You should also visit your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings. These visits help ensure that any changes to your oral health are caught early and taken care of with prompt treatment. That way, you can get back to a problem-free smile you deserve.

About the Author

Dr. Ulysses L. Marable III earned his dental degree from the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry in Augusta. He is dedicated to giving the Fort Valley community the high-quality care they deserve, such as fillings and crowns to treat cavities and damage. By ensuring your results are customized to you, you can trust that they look and feel natural in the end. If you are worried about decay between your teeth, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Marable’s office at (478) 825-3000.