Interdental cavities are a more common problem than they seem. They form in the spaces between the teeth, places where the toothbrush doesn’t reach well. At first, they are barely noticeable, but if they are not treated in time, they can progress and cause pain or further damage to the tooth.
Interdental cavities
Interdental cavities appear between two teeth. This happens because food debris and plaque accumulate in these small spaces and are not removed with regular brushing. Over time, bacteria transform the food residues into acids that wear down the enamel and form small cavities that grow if they are not treated.
The main causes are insufficient hygiene, not using dental floss or interdental brushes, eating a lot of sugar, or not visiting the dentist regularly. Additionally, when the teeth are very close together or crooked, these spaces become more prone to developing cavities.
Symptoms
At first, interdental cavities usually do not hurt and can go unnoticed. However, some signs that may appear are:
- Sensitivity to cold, heat, or sweets.
- Pain or discomfort when biting.
- Persistent bad breath.
- Dark spots or visible dots between the teeth.
Detecting them in time helps make treatment easier and prevents bigger problems.
Treatment of interdental cavities
When an interdental cavity is detected, the most important thing is to stop its progression and protect the health of the affected tooth. The appropriate treatment depends on how far the cavity has progressed and the depth of the lesion. Acting early allows the procedures to be simpler and more effective.
Dental fillings
If the cavity is in an early or moderate stage, the most common approach is to clean the affected area and fill it with a dental filling. This removes the damaged part of the tooth and restores its shape and function.
Modern fillings look natural and integrate perfectly with the rest of the tooth, preventing the problem from reappearing in the same spot.
Cleaning and daily care
Before or after placing a filling, the dentist usually performs a deep cleaning. This removes all accumulated plaque and tartar, which are the main causes of new cavities.
Additionally, it is an opportunity to teach more effective hygiene techniques, such as using dental floss and interdental brushes, which help keep the spaces between the teeth clean and protected.
More complex restorations
When the cavity has advanced and reached deeper layers of the tooth, a more comprehensive treatment may be necessary. This may include a larger reconstruction of the tooth, replacing a bigger part of the damaged area.
If the cavity has reached the pulp, which is the inner part of the tooth where the nerves are, a root canal treatment will be necessary to clean the interior before sealing it. This procedure prevents infections and preserves the tooth in place.
Prevention and follow-up
The treatment of interdental cavities does not end with repairing the tooth. It is essential to maintain regular dental check-ups to ensure no new cavities appear and that the fillings are in good condition. Maintaining proper daily hygiene and a diet controlled in sugar is key to preventing cavities from forming again in the spaces between the teeth.
With proper treatment and correct care habits, interdental cavities can be easily controlled and bigger problems avoided, such as intense pain, infections, or tooth loss.
We treat interdental cavities
At Gross Dentistas, we take care of detecting and treating interdental cavities effectively. Our team works to repair the damage and help you prevent future problems.
We know how important it is to have a healthy smile. That is why we offer check-ups, accurate diagnoses, and solutions tailored to each person. Our dentists in Torremolinos and Málaga are ready to take care of you and keep your oral health in the best hands.
If you are looking for professional care, we have dentists in Torremolinos and Málaga who offer a personal approach and lasting results. Don’t wait for a small discomfort to become a bigger problem. Contact us and schedule an appointment soon.
Ortodoncista especializada en el sistema de ortodoncia invisible, extensa trayectoria profesional y un gran número de pacientes satisfechos con los resultados obtenidos tras la finalización de su tratamiento.
