Many patients assume their mouths must be perfectly healthy if they haven’t noticed obvious issues, like tooth decay. But unfortunately, you can have a problem and not know it because it can develop in hard-to-see spaces, like between the teeth, which is sometimes referred to as an interproximal cavity.
If you don’t recognize the early warning signs, the issue is more likely to go untreated and evolve into a more serious concern. Continue reading to learn about 3 symptoms of hidden cavities, so you know when to contact your dentist for help!
Sign #1: Sensitivity
Several factors can cause dental sensitivity, but thinning enamel is a major one. If unhealthy bacteria in your mouth are able to thrive between two teeth, they can produce acids that cause tooth decay.
If you feel a sharp or uncomfortable sensation when biting or chewing, especially with anything overly hot, cold, sweet, spicy, or acidic, you may have an interproximal issue. Your dentist can use digital X-rays or other advanced imaging technology to help verify whether a cavity is present and how to treat it.
Sign #2: Discoloration
Discoloration is another common sign that lets you know a tooth might be damaged. For instance, the affected tooth might develop faint brown or black areas or look somewhat darker than neighboring teeth. This can happen as bacteria, acids, and food particles break down the brightly toned enamel, letting more of the underlying dentin show through.
This can sometimes appear as darker lines along the base of the tooth at the gumline or on either side if decay has developed between two teeth, so you may have to look closely to spot it.
Sign #3: Frayed Floss
Brushing twice daily removes harmful plaque and bacteria that contributes to dental decay, but if you’re not also flossing, you may be more likely to develop an interproximal cavity. Germs can hide and flourish between your teeth, causing damage that you might not notice until you try to floss the area.
For example, if you realize that the string becomes cut or frayed whenever you try to clean a certain area, it might be because jagged edges of enamel located there have damaged the material.
Paying attention to your own dental condition can help you identify changes that might indicate a developing problem, like interproximal cavities. The sooner you contact your dentist for an appointment, the sooner they can treat the issue to keep it from worsening or spreading to your other teeth or jawbone.
Meet the Author
Dr. Andrew Hale enjoys getting to know his patients so he can provide quality dental services tailored to meet their unique needs. He earned his dental degree at Case Western Reserve University, and since then, has completed hundreds of hours of continuing educational programs. Today, he offers a complete menu of services, including tooth-colored fillings, using advanced technology for comfortable, beautiful, and reliable results. If you’re concerned about hidden cavities, you can request an appointment on the website or call (802) 223-2244.