Introduction
Cavities in between teeth, also known as interproximal cavities, are small holes that form in the tooth enamel. These cavities can develop due to a variety of reasons, including inadequate flossing and brushing, certain foods and drinks, dry mouth, broken tooth fillings, and some medical conditions. If not properly treated, cavities can progress and lead to serious dental issues such as tooth sensitivity, pain, infection, and tooth loss.
Risk Factors
One of the primary factors increasing the risk of tooth decay and cavities between teeth is inadequate oral hygiene practices. Failing to clean the mouth regularly, especially after eating or drinking, can lead to the accumulation of food debris and plaque between teeth. Other factors include:
- Excessive consumption of sugars and acids: Foods high in sugar and acids contribute to the formation of cavities
- Dry mouth: Saliva plays a crucial role in tooth decay prevention, reducing the risk of cavities. Low salivary flow increases the risk of cavities
- Broken tooth fillings: Allow the accumulation of food debris and bacteria, causing tooth decay
- Some medical conditions: such as bulimia, which causes the erosion of teeth and increases the risk of cavities
Signs and Symptoms
Cavities between teeth may not be noticeable at first, but as they progress, the holes become large and may reach the tooth pulp, causing tooth pain. Some common symptoms of cavities between teeth include:
- Food particles getting stuck between teeth
- Bad breath
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or hard foods
- Brown or black holes between teeth
- Sharp pain without any apparent cause
- Pain associated with biting or chewing
- Inflammation of the gum between teeth
- Continuous pain
- Gum swelling
- Facial swelling
It is essential to take action if any of these symptoms are present, as they may indicate a cavity. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further damage to your tooth.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing a cavity between teeth can be challenging, as these cavities are often subtle and require a dental expert to spot. Your dentist may use several methods to detect these cavities, including:
- Oral examination: The dentist examines the area between teeth using a mirror and probe. In the early stages, they may notice white spots or soft spots on the tooth surface. These spots become darker and deeper over time.
- Bitewing X-ray: A bitewing X-ray type helps diagnose gum disease and cavities between teeth.
Treatment
Treatment for a cavity between teeth depends on the size and extent of the damage. Some common treatment options include:
- Fluoride treatment: A fluoride gel or varnish can remineralize the tooth and reverse the early stage of tooth decay.
- Filling: If the decay has already moved through your enamel, your dentist will need to treat it with a filling
- Crown: In some cases, a dental crown may be necessary to cover the damaged tooth and protect it from further decay.
- Root canal therapy: If the damage reaches the tooth pulp, your dentist may recommend the removal of infected pulp tissues and saving the tooth with a root canal.
- Extraction: If the decay extends to the tooth root or the tooth is severely damaged and cannot be restored, an extraction may be necessary.
Prevention
While your dentist can treat any cavity, the best approach is to prevent them in the first place. Here are some tips to help prevent cavities between teeth:
- Maintain a balanced diet low in processed foods and added sugars
- Floss regularly to remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth
- Brush your teeth regularly with a fluoride toothpaste
- Drink plenty of water
- Limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups
By practicing good oral hygiene and making certain lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing cavities between your teeth.
