Cavity Between Teeth: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

From a young age, we are taught about the damaging effects of cavities and the importance of taking care of our teeth. Whether it was our parents reminding us to brush and floss or our dentists reinforcing this message, the fear of cavities is deeply ingrained in our minds.

One particular type of cavity, the cavity between teeth, is especially concerning as it can often go unnoticed until it causes discomfort or damage.

Keep on reading to learn more about cavities, what exactly they are, how to prevent them, and how to keep your smile bright and healthy.

What Are Cavities Between Teeth?

Cavities, also known as tooth decay, are tiny openings that develop on the hard surface of teeth due to damage caused by different factors.

One of the main reasons is that bacteria that live in our mouths, along with sugars from the food we eat, create acids that can harm our teeth.

Additionally, not taking care of our dental hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly can increase the chance of getting cavities.

Identifying a Cavity Between Teeth: Signs and Symptoms

Detecting a cavity between your teeth can be a bit tricky since they often develop in areas that are not easily visible. Additionally, you may not experience any symptoms in the early stages of cavity development, but some signs to look out for include:

●     Pain or Discomfort: Sudden pain in a specific tooth, especially when biting or chewing.

●     Tooth Sensitivity: You might experience increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages.

●     Visible Dark Spots or Holes: In some cases, you may notice dark spots or small holes on the surface of your teeth. This could be a result of advanced cavities.

Unfortunately, as mentioned before, you may not notice you have a cavity until it starts to cause any of these signs.

If you are experiencing any of the previous symptoms, make sure to make a dental appointment. Your dentist can perform an examination, including X-rays, where cavities can be identified.

Type of Cavities

Cavities can develop on any tooth surface. The main types of cavities are:

●     Smooth Surface Cavities: This type of cavity dissolves tooth enamel and is frequently shown between the teeth of people in their twenties.

●     Pit and Fissure Cavities: They form on the chewing surface of the back teeth, where food particles and bacteria accumulate. A molar cavity can commonly start during someone's teenage years.

●     Root Cavities: People with receding gums are more prone to get a root cavity. The exposure of the tooth's roots makes them more vulnerable to decay.

What Are The Treatment Options?

Treatment options for cavities depend on the severity of the decay, note that addressing a small cavity may differ from treating a more advanced one. The following are some common approaches that dentists may recommend:

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are the most common treatment for cavities. Your dentist will drill out the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the hole. A cavity filling is usually done using a tooth-colored composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain.

Root Canal Therapy

When the cavity reaches the pulp (the inner structure of a tooth that contains the nerves and blood vessels), a root canal may be necessary.

This procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the canal, and sealing it to prevent further infection. Your dentist may place a crown for added protection.

Tooth Extraction

A tooth extraction is recommended when a root canal is not possible. To replace the removed tooth, a dental bridge or an implant is recommended, so the other teeth don’t shift into the gap left by the tooth.

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible part of a tooth, providing strength and protection. In cases where there’s a larger cavity that compromises a significant portion of the tooth, a dental crown may be recommended.

How Can I Prevent a Cavity Between Teeth?

The key to avoiding the development of cavities is maintaining good oral health. The following are some tips to keep your dental hygiene:

●     Brush Your Teeth Regularly: At least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the hard-to-reach areas.

●     Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline.

●     Follow a Healthy Diet: Make sure to reduce the intake of sugary foods and beverages, and consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. Avoid foods that can get stuck in your teeth.

The Help You Need at Sani Dental Group

If you are dealing with dental cavities, whether they're between your teeth or on any other tooth, you can get treatment for it at any of our clinics.

At our clinics, you can get a dental filling, crowns, or have the damaged tooth removed and replaced. Contact our patient coordinators and book an appointment!