Dental Cavities That Occur Between the Teeth

You may not believe that you have a dental cavity unless you feel pain in a tooth. However, no pain doesn’t mean there isn’t still a problem. Waiting until you have a toothache to come to the dentist only means that the dental cavity has had time to deepen, turning what would have been a simple filling procedure into a root canal. Dental cavities that grow between the teeth, which are also known as interproximal cavities can be very sneaky.

Interproximal Cavities

Interproximal cavities are diagnosed with the use of a bite-wing X-ray. This is a very important part of early detection for dental cavities and will allow Dr. Preston Polson to determine the severity of the dental cavity. Some dental cavities can be found visually, but without an X-ray, the depth of the cavity can’t be determined.

If a dental cavity is detected early enough, it can be recalcified using fluoride gel. If the cavity has been allowed to deepen through the tooth enamel, the cavity will need to be filled. If a dental cavity has been left untreated for long enough, it will eventually reach the inside of the tooth, known as the pulp, which will require a root canal, dental crown, or may mean the loss of the tooth.

Preventing Interproximal Cavities

The best thing you can do to prevent interproximal cavities is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing at least twice a day, flossing every day, and visiting Meadows Family Dental every six months for a dental cleaning and an exam.

To make an appointment for your regular dental cleaning and checkup, please contact Meadows Family Dental. Our general dental office is located in Castle Rock, Colorado.