Now that you are older, you may think that cavities are no longer a worry. You likely keep up with your oral health to prevent them, but there is still an off chance you get one. They are a common dental problem that affects any part of the tooth’s surface, so figuring out the signs you have one can be helpful. This is especially true for any that sneak between your teeth. Keep reading to learn how you can tell you have decay in these areas and how your dentist can help.
Do I Have a Cavity Between my Teeth?
When it comes to cavities in the interproximal space (the places between your teeth), the best way to see if you have one is by visiting your dentist. They have tools and advanced imaging technology that can pinpoint where and how big it is. Catching them early will help ensure that they don’t cause many problems. If it has the chance to grow, you may notice:
- Increased tooth sensitivity when eating anything hot, cold, or overly sweet
- Discomfort when biting and chewing
- Noticeable dark spots between your teeth
- As you floss, the thread gets caught and breaks against a certain tooth
How Are These Cavities Treated?
The sooner you visit your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms, the more likely you are to catch the cavity sooner rather than later. Instead of needing a more in-depth treatment, you may be able to get an easy filling.
Your dentist will simply remove the decayed portions and apply tooth-colored composite resin to reinforce these areas. If the cavity is severe, then a dental crown can help restore both the function and look of your tooth.
What Can I Do to Prevent Cavities?
Thankfully, making sure you don’t get any cavities is a simple feat. Here are some tips you can follow:
- Keep up with your oral hygiene routine by brushing twice a day and flossing at least once. You can even rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to ensure your smile is fully clean.
- Avoid foods and drinks filled with sugar as they can increase your risk of cavities.
- Have routine checkups with your dentist to catch any changes to your oral health right away, and they can let you know how you can improve your at-home routine.
In the end, a cavity between your teeth can be sneaky, but by following these tips, you can keep your smile strong and healthy.
About the Practice
At Schumacher Dental, we look out for you and your oral health. We know how tooth decay can happen to anyone, so we are happy to help you get rid of it to preserve your grin. With a board-certified prosthodontist on staff, you can trust that any restorative treatment you get, such as a filling or crown, will look and feel natural. If you have a noticeable dark spot on one of your teeth, schedule an appointment or call us at (781) 334-3400.