When you were younger, you were likely told to always brush your teeth. It’s important to prevent cavities after all, so doing it first thing in the morning and as a last step before bed became second nature. However, even now that you’re older, this oral health issue can still sneak up on you if you don’t have proper dental hygiene. Decay can happen on the surfaces of your teeth, but also between them! Any in these tight areas can be tricky to spot, so here’s how you can notice them to get the treatment you deserve.
Do I Have a Cavity Between My Teeth?
It’s more likely that a cavity shows up on the parts of your teeth you chew with, particularly on your molars. However, many people may not realize that they can occur between these dental structures, also known as interproximal spaces. If one does develop here, then these are some symptoms you may experience:
- Discomfort when you bite and chew food.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold things you eat.
- A noticeable dark spot.
- Floss that consistently snags or gets caught against a certain tooth.
What Treatments Can Fix My Cavity?
If you notice any of these signs, then you should visit your dentist! They may feel minor, but a cavity can become a dental emergency when it’s left untreated. You’ll also be able to get a simple filling instead of a more in-depth restorative treatment.
When decay is small, your dentist can remove it and fill it with a color-matched composite resin. It helps rebuild the area that was taken out and keeps your tooth strong. If it’s more major, then you can opt for a crown. This is a cap that fixes up both function and aesthetics.
How Can I Avoid Developing Cavities?
Regardless, the best thing you can do is prevent oral health issues in the first place! It also can be easy to do; you just have to follow the right tips and add them to your daily routine. Here are some you can try out:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes to remove plaque that’s on your teeth.
- Floss once every day to get rid of food debris and bacteria that may be hiding between them.
- Eat sugary foods in moderation and rinse with water afterward; that way, you lower your risk of cavities.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings. They are trained to watch out for dental problems and take the steps to fix them right away. So, you can keep your smile in great shape for years to come.
About the Practice
At Patriot Dental, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Keith Lisonbee and Dr. Dan Henry. While we do our best to help the Pensacola community avoid cavities, some can still sneak up on you if you aren’t careful. We can then give you a simple and effective restorative treatment, like a filling or crown, to help your grin be good as new! If you are worried about this oral health issue, schedule an appointment or call our office at (850) 477-1120.