Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, but they’re not always easy to spot, especially when they develop between your teeth. Known as interproximal cavities, these hidden decay spots can go unnoticed until they cause pain or sensitivity. Because they form in areas your toothbrush might miss, early detection and good oral hygiene are essential. Here’s how to tell if you might have a cavity between your teeth and what to do about it.
Tooth Sensitivity Between Teeth
One of the first signs of a cavity forming between teeth is increased sensitivity. You may notice discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sugary foods. The sensation might feel like a quick, sharp pain that lingers for a few seconds. This happens when enamel wears down and exposes the underlying dentin layer, which contains tiny nerve endings. If this sensitivity is localized between two teeth, it’s often a clue that decay is developing in that tight space.
Pain When Chewing or Biting Down
If you feel pain when chewing or biting, especially in a specific area, it could indicate a cavity between your teeth. As the decay progresses, it can cause structural weakness in the tooth or even reach the nerve, leading to dull or throbbing discomfort. While occasional pressure pain may result from food stuck between teeth, persistent or recurring pain is a sign to see your dentist.
Dark Spots or Stains Between Teeth
Cavities often start as tiny discolored spots that darken over time. If you notice brown or black lines along the edges of your teeth, especially near the gumline or between teeth, it might be decay. However, these spots can be hard to see without dental X-rays, which is why regular checkups are vital for catching cavities early.
Food Getting Stuck Frequently
Do you find yourself constantly needing to floss a particular area after meals? Food that frequently gets trapped between the same two teeth may be a sign of enamel erosion or a developing cavity. As decay weakens the enamel, it can create small gaps or rough areas where debris easily lodges. Left untreated, these spaces can trap bacteria and make the cavity worse.
Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste
Persistent bad breath (halitosis) or a bitter taste in your mouth can sometimes indicate a hidden cavity. When bacteria feed on trapped food particles between teeth, they produce sulfur compounds that cause unpleasant odors. This issue won’t go away with mouthwash alone—professional cleaning or cavity treatment is often needed to eliminate the underlying decay.
How Dentists Detect Cavities Between Teeth
Even if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing, cavities between teeth can develop without obvious symptoms. Dentists use digital X-rays to spot decay in these hidden areas early on before you feel pain or sensitivity. Early treatment can save you from more invasive procedures, such as root canals or crowns, later on.
Protecting Against Interproximal Cavities
Preventing cavities between teeth comes down to consistent, thorough oral hygiene:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth.
- Limit sugary snacks and beverages.
- Schedule professional cleanings every six months.
By paying attention to small changes and maintaining good dental habits, you can protect your smile from hidden cavities and avoid painful surprises down the road.
About the Practice
Do you need to restore a damaged tooth? Do you suffer from cavities? At Neosmile Dental Care, we can turn back the clock for your smile with restorative dentistry. Our all-porcelain restorations create beautiful, natural-looking results. We partner only with the best local dental labs, and each restoration is custom-made for each patient, you included! Whatever your problem is, we can help. Schedule an appointment online or call our Ambler office at (215) 643-5220.
