According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, tooth decay is the most common chronic condition in both children and adults. Many people deal with cavities, but somehow, they’re still fairly misunderstood.
For example, did you know that you can develop cavities in between the teeth? So-called “interproximal cavities” can be hard to detect but are just as dangerous as any other form of tooth decay. Here’s a little bit more information about interproximal cavities, along with what you ought to do to address them.
I Can Get Cavities Between My Teeth?!?
It can certainly be surprising to hear that you can get cavities in places that you can’t see, but it makes sense when you think about it. The reason why flossing is so important is that plaque can build up in places that brushing can’t reach, and that plaque can lead to tooth decay eventually. If you aren’t conscientious with your oral hygiene, you could very well start to develop cavities without even realizing it.
How Can I Tell if I Have Interproximal Cavities?
Usually, you won’t be able to figure out you have cavities in between your teeth until it’s already too late. Once decay reaches a certain point, it’ll expose the layer of the tooth underneath your enamel, causing discomfort or sensitivity to heat and cold. In the worst case, bacteria could seep into the root pulp, causing an uncomfortable condition known as pulpitis.
Ideally, you can catch and treat your cavities before they reach that point. The best way to do that is to make frequent trips to your dentist. They can find these interproximal cavities on a bitewing x-ray before you begin to feel them.
What Can I Do About Interproximal Cavities?
If you think you have one of these cavities, tell your dentist; they’ll have treatment options for you depending on how far the cavity has progressed. These could include, from least to most advanced:
- Recalcification
- Filling
- Dental crown
- Root Canal
- Extraction, in extreme cases
Discovering interproximal cavities requires you to make frequent trips to the dentist, and to be sensitive to how your teeth are feeling. If you do that, you’ll be able to make your teeth that much better without realizing it.
About the Author
Dr. James Kramer has been working as a dentist for over 30 years, and that’s because he absolutely loves his work. From getting to know his patients, to working with them on a treatment plan, to restoring their smiles to perfection, he feels immensely privileged to do what he does. Dr. Kramer graduated from the Temple University School of Dentistry, and he’s earned the title of Master from the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction earned by less than 7% of U.S. dentists.
If you have any questions about cavities, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (302) 436-5133.