Cavities between teeth are more common than many people realize. They can be hard to spot because they often don’t cause pain at first. However, if left untreated, they can lead to bigger problems.
It is important to know the signs of cavities between your teeth so you can take action early. Recognizing these symptoms can save you from more serious dental issues later on. Read on to learn more!
What Causes Cavities Between Teeth?
Cavities happen when the enamel on your teeth breaks down. This can be caused by sugary foods, poor oral hygiene, or even dry mouth. When food particles and bacteria sit between your teeth, they start to form acids that slowly eat away at the enamel.
Early Symptoms of Cavities Between Teeth
In the beginning, cavities between teeth might not hurt. But there are some early signs to watch out for. You may notice that your gums bleed when you floss. This can happen if there is a cavity or plaque buildup.
Another sign is if food gets stuck between your teeth more often than usual. This can be a sign that the enamel is breaking down. If your teeth feel rough or uneven when you run your tongue over them, it might be a sign of a cavity starting to form.
Taking steps to prevent tooth decay early on, such as maintaining good oral hygiene, can help. If you’re concerned, visiting a Lexington pediatric dentist can help address these early symptoms and keep your child’s teeth healthy.
Pain and Sensitivity
As cavities get worse, they may start to cause pain or sensitivity. You might feel discomfort when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods. This sensitivity happens because the cavity is getting closer to the nerve inside your tooth.
Bad Breath
Cavities can also lead to bad breath. When bacteria grow in the cavity, they release gases that cause an unpleasant odor. If you follow your oral hygiene practices, like brushing your teeth, and still have bad breath, it could be because of a cavity between your teeth.
Visible Holes or Dark Spots
If the cavity has gotten big enough, you may see a visible hole or dark spot between your teeth. These spots can be brown, black, or even gray.
Sometimes, you may not notice a hole right away, but the darkened area can still indicate decay. If you see any unusual spots on your teeth, it’s important to get them checked by a dentist.
Gum Pain or Swelling
Another sign of cavities between teeth is pain or swelling in your gums. As the cavity grows, it can irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed.
Swollen gums can also bleed when you brush or floss. If your gums hurt or look red and swollen, it could mean you have a cavity or infection between your teeth.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore These Symptoms
Ignoring the signs of cavities between your teeth can lead to serious dental problems. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to an infection, abscess, or even tooth loss.
Protect Your Teeth by Recognizing the Symptoms Early
Cavities between teeth can be hard to detect, but knowing the symptoms is key. If you notice pain, sensitivity, bleeding gums, bad breath, or dark spots, don’t ignore them.
It’s important to take action early to prevent further damage. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist can help keep your teeth healthy and free of cavities.
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