Dental cavities can form in various locations on a tooth, but some of the most challenging to detect are those that develop between two teeth. An interproximal cavity, sometimes called a “flossing cavity,” forms on the side surfaces where teeth touch, making them difficult to see or feel without professional examination. These hidden cavities develop when bacteria and plaque accumulate in these tight spaces, producing acids that erode the tooth’s protective outer layer, the enamel. Due to their concealed nature, professional dental care is essential for timely identification and effective treatment, preventing further progression.
Why Self-Treatment Isn’t Possible
Attempting to treat a cavity at home is not a safe or effective solution, particularly for interproximal cavities. Home remedies cannot remove decayed material or sterilize the affected area. Any attempt to fill a cavity at home would merely trap the decay inside, allowing the problem to worsen and potentially spread deeper into the tooth.
Proper cavity treatment requires specialized dental tools for precise decay removal and a sterile environment to prevent new infections. DIY kits lack the necessary instruments and cannot ensure the sterile conditions of a dental office, risking bacterial contamination, damage to healthy tooth structure, or allergic reactions to unvetted materials. While early enamel demineralization might be reversible with proper hygiene and fluoride, once a true cavity forms and penetrates the dentin, professional intervention is the only way to repair the damage and prevent serious issues like abscesses or tooth loss.
How Dentists Diagnose and Treat
Diagnosing interproximal cavities often requires more than a visual inspection due to their hidden location. Dentists primarily rely on dental X-rays, particularly bitewing radiographs, to identify these concealed areas of decay. Bitewing X-rays offer a detailed view of the crowns of upper and lower back teeth, revealing dark spots indicating decay where teeth touch. Dental probes, slender instruments, are also used during examination to explore tooth surfaces for soft spots or irregularities.
Once an interproximal cavity is identified, the dentist proceeds with treatment. The first step involves numbing the affected area using a local anesthetic. After the area is numb, the dentist carefully removes the decayed tooth material using specialized instruments, such as a high-speed dental drill or an excavator. This process removes infected tissue while preserving healthy tooth structure.
Following decay removal, the cavity is thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the filling material. For interproximal cavities, dentists commonly use composite resin, a tooth-colored material that blends seamlessly with natural teeth. The composite resin is applied in thin layers, with each layer hardened using a special curing light. This layering and curing process builds up the filling, restoring the tooth’s shape and function.
Alternatively, amalgam, a silver-colored mixture of metals, may be used, especially for less visible back molars due to its durability. Amalgam is packed into the prepared cavity and shaped to fit the tooth’s contours before it hardens. After placement, the dentist sculpts and polishes the filling to ensure a smooth surface and proper bite alignment.
For larger cavities, or when a significant portion of the tooth structure is compromised, a dental crown may be necessary. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire tooth, providing greater protection and support than a filling. Crowns are often recommended if the cavity is too extensive for a filling to adequately restore the tooth’s strength, or following a root canal procedure to protect the weakened tooth.
Preventing Interproximal Cavities
Preventing interproximal cavities requires a consistent oral hygiene routine, focusing on areas a toothbrush cannot easily reach. Daily flossing is a cornerstone of prevention, as it physically removes food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline, where toothbrushes are ineffective. This mechanical removal disrupts bacterial films that produce acids, lowering the risk of decay.
Proper brushing technique complements flossing in overall cavity prevention. Brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste cleans tooth surfaces, removing plaque and reducing bacterial load. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush angled at 45 degrees towards the gumline allows for effective cleaning without irritating gums.
Fluoride enhances enamel’s resistance to acid attacks, helping prevent and reverse early tooth decay. Incorporating fluoride through toothpaste, rinses, and fluoridated tap water strengthens enamel and inhibits cavity-causing bacteria. This mineral helps maintain robust tooth structure.
Dietary habits also influence cavity formation. Minimizing sugary and acidic foods and drinks reduces fuel for bacteria to produce enamel-eroding acids. Limiting snacking between meals allows saliva to neutralize acids and remineralize tooth surfaces. Opting for water, especially fluoridated water, and consuming calcium-rich foods and fibrous fruits and vegetables supports oral health by stimulating saliva flow and providing essential minerals.
Regular dental check-ups are an indispensable part of prevention. During these visits, dental professionals perform thorough cleanings to remove hardened plaque (tartar), which cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. These routine appointments allow for early detection of issues, enabling timely intervention before problems escalate.