How To Know If You Have A Cavity Between Teeth

I’ve always been pretty careful with my dental hygiene, brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. Still, I started noticing a weird sensitivity between two of my teeth and couldn’t figure out why. There wasn’t a visible hole or any obvious pain, but something just didn’t feel right. That’s when I learned that cavities can form between teeth—and they’re not always easy to spot at first.

If you’ve ever had that nagging feeling that something is off with your teeth, especially in those tight spaces where food always seems to get stuck, you’re not alone. Figuring out whether you have a cavity between your teeth can be tricky without a dentist’s help, but there are some signs you can look out for. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what I learned from my own experience and what dental experts say about detecting these hidden cavities early.

What Is an Interproximal Cavity?

An interproximal cavity, also known as an interdental cavity, is a type of tooth decay that develops in the tight spaces between your teeth. These areas are prone to plaque buildup—a sticky film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva—that forms when oral hygiene is inconsistent. When plaque isn’t removed, the bacteria feed on sugars and starches, producing acids that erode the tooth’s enamel, the hard outer layer. Over time, this erosion creates tiny holes or pits, which can deepen into cavities affecting the dentin (softer layer beneath enamel) and even the pulp (inner nerve and blood vessel layer).

Interproximal cavities are particularly tricky because they’re hidden from view and harder to clean than cavities on the front or back of teeth. Without regular flossing or dental checkups, they can go unnoticed until they cause significant damage.

How Do Cavities Between Teeth Develop?

Cavities between teeth form through a process of tooth decay, driven by plaque and bacterial activity. Here’s how it happens, step by step:

Plaque Formation: After eating, food particles and sugars linger on and between your teeth. Bacteria in your mouth feed on these, forming a sticky plaque layer. If not removed within 24–48 hours, plaque hardens into tartar, which is tougher to clean and shields bacteria.

Enamel Erosion: The acids produced by bacteria in plaque attack the enamel, causing tiny openings or holes. Interproximal areas are especially vulnerable because toothbrushes can’t reach them effectively.

Dentin Damage: Once enamel is breached, bacteria and acids reach the dentin, a softer layer that’s less resistant to decay. This stage often brings sensitivity and pain.

Pulp Involvement: If untreated, decay reaches the pulp, causing inflammation, severe pain, and potential infection (abscess). This can spread to the tooth’s root or surrounding bone.

Risk Factors for Interproximal Cavities

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing cavities between teeth:

Poor Oral Hygiene: Skipping flossing leaves plaque between teeth, where brushing can’t reach.

Sugary or Starchy Diets: Foods like candy, soda, bread, or chips feed bacteria, increasing acid production.

Frequent Snacking or Sipping: Constant eating or drinking sugary beverages keeps teeth under acid attack.

Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva (from medications, medical conditions, or aging) fails to wash away food and neutralize acids.

Receding Gums: Exposes vulnerable tooth roots, which are prone to decay.

Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco reduces saliva and promotes plaque buildup.

Insufficient Fluoride: Lack of fluoride from toothpaste or water weakens enamel.

Tooth Location: Back teeth (molars and premolars) have grooves and pits that trap food, making them more susceptible.

Age: Young children, teenagers, and older adults are at higher risk due to diet, hygiene habits, or age-related tooth wear.

How to Know If You Have a Cavity Between Teeth

Interproximal cavities are hard to detect because they’re hidden between teeth, often requiring dental X-rays to confirm. However, you can watch for these common symptoms, which may indicate a cavity:

Tooth Pain: Sharp or dull pain when biting or chewing, especially if the decay has reached deeper layers like the dentin or pulp.

Tooth Sensitivity: Discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, as enamel erosion exposes sensitive dentin.

Visible Holes or Pits: In some cases, you may see a small hole or pit between teeth, though this is rare without a dental mirror or X-ray.

Dark Spots or Stains: Brown, black, or white discoloration on the tooth surface may signal decay.

Bad Breath or Taste: Persistent bad breath or a foul taste, caused by trapped food and bacteria in the cavity.

Pain When Biting Down: Pressure-related pain can indicate a cavity affecting the tooth’s structure or nerve.

You May Not Experience Symptoms

In the early stages, interproximal cavities may be asymptomatic, meaning you feel no pain or sensitivity. This is why regular dental checkups are crucial—dentists use X-rays to detect hidden cavities before they worsen. If you notice any of the above symptoms, schedule a dental appointment promptly to prevent complications like infection, abscess, or tooth loss.

How to Check a Cavity in Teeth at Home

While only a dentist can definitively diagnose a cavity, you can check for potential signs at home:

Visual Inspection: Use a small dental mirror (available at pharmacies) and a flashlight to look for dark spots, pits, or holes between teeth. This is challenging for interproximal cavities due to their location.

Floss Test: If flossing causes pain, snags, or feels different in one spot, it could indicate a cavity or rough tooth surface.

Sensitivity Test: Sip hot or cold water or eat something sweet. Persistent sensitivity in a specific area may suggest decay.

Check Breath: Ongoing bad breath despite good hygiene could point to a cavity or trapped food.

Important: Home checks are not a substitute for professional diagnosis. If you suspect a cavity, visit a dentist for X-rays and an exam to confirm and treat the issue.

How to Tell If It’s a Cavity or a Crack

Distinguishing between a cavity and a cracked tooth can be tricky, as both cause pain and sensitivity. Here’s how to differentiate:

Cavity: Pain is often triggered by hot, cold, or sweet foods and may be constant or worsen with chewing. Look for dark spots or pits. Cavities develop gradually due to decay.

Cracked Tooth: Pain is typically sharp, especially when biting or releasing pressure. Cracks may not be visible but can cause sudden, intense discomfort. Cracks often result from trauma or grinding.

A dentist will use X-rays, visual exams, or dye tests to confirm whether it’s a cavity or crack. Cracked teeth may require crowns or extraction, while cavities are treated with fillings or root canals.

How Do You Know If You Have a Hidden Cavity?

Hidden cavities, like interproximal ones, often show no visible signs and may be asymptomatic early on. They’re typically detected during dental checkups via:

X-rays: Reveal decay between teeth or under enamel that isn’t visible to the naked eye.

Dental Exam: Dentists use tools to probe for soft spots or irregularities.

Symptoms: Subtle sensitivity, pain when biting, or bad breath may hint at a hidden cavity.

Regular dental visits (every six months) are the best way to catch hidden cavities before they progress.

Can You Fix a Cavity Between Teeth?

Yes, interproximal cavities can be fixed, but treatment depends on the severity of the decay:

Remineralization: For early-stage decay (before a hole forms), fluoride treatments or mineral-rich products (e.g., calcium phosphate) can strengthen enamel and reverse damage. This is often done with professional fluoride applications or prescription toothpaste.

Dental Fillings: The most common treatment for moderate cavities. The dentist removes decayed material and fills the cavity with tooth-colored resin, amalgam, or gold to restore the tooth’s shape and function.

Root Canal Therapy: If decay reaches the pulp, a root canal removes infected tissue, cleans the tooth’s interior, and seals it to prevent further damage. A crown may follow to protect the tooth.

Dental Crown: For extensive decay weakening the tooth, a custom-made cap (metal, porcelain, or composite) covers and protects it.

Tooth Extraction: If the tooth is too damaged to save, extraction is necessary. Options like implants or bridges can replace the missing tooth.

Early detection is key to simpler treatments like fillings, so don’t skip dental checkups.

Cavity in Between Teeth Treatment

Treating interproximal cavities typically involves:

1. Fillings: The dentist drills out decayed material and fills the space with a durable material. This is effective for most cavities caught early.
2. Root Canals: For deep decay affecting the pulp, a root canal saves the tooth by removing infected tissue and sealing the root.
3. Crowns: Used for severe decay or after a root canal to restore strength and appearance.
4. Extraction: A last resort for irreparable teeth, followed by replacement options like implants.

Your dentist will assess the cavity’s severity using X-rays and recommend the best approach. Facilities like the Cleveland Clinic offer advanced dental care for such treatments.

What Does a Cavity Look Like?

Interproximal cavities are hard to see without dental tools, but they may appear as:

1. Dark Spots or Stains: Brown, black, or white discoloration between teeth.
2. Holes or Pits: Small openings visible with a dental mirror or on X-rays.
3. Rough Texture: A rough or uneven surface when flossing or probing with a dental tool.
4. On X-rays, cavities show as dark areas where enamel has thinned. A dentist’s professional exam is the most reliable way to identify them.

How to Fix a Cavity Between Teeth at Home

You cannot fully fix a cavity at home, as cavities involve permanent enamel loss that requires professional treatment. However, you can take steps to manage early decay or prevent worsening:

1. Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and slow early decay.
2. Floss Daily: Remove plaque and food particles to prevent further decay.
3. Rinse with Fluoride Mouthwash: Helps remineralize enamel in early stages.
4. Limit Sugary Foods: Reduce bacterial fuel to slow cavity progression.
5. Apply Clove Oil: For temporary pain relief, dab a small amount on the affected area (consult a dentist first).
6. Warning: Home remedies cannot reverse cavities once a hole forms. Attempting to “remove” decay yourself (e.g., scraping) can damage teeth and worsen the problem. See a dentist for proper treatment.

How to Remove Tooth Decay Yourself

You cannot safely remove tooth decay yourself, as it requires professional tools and expertise to avoid damaging teeth or gums. However, you can support early-stage decay management:

1. Fluoride Treatments: Use prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste or gels as recommended by your dentist to remineralize enamel.
2. Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque.
3. Diet Changes: Avoid sugary and starchy foods to starve decay-causing bacteria.

For established cavities, professional intervention (fillings, root canals) is necessary. Avoid DIY methods like scraping or using unverified remedies, as they can lead to infection or tooth damage.

How to Heal Cavities in 2 Days at Home

Healing a cavity in two days at home is not possible, as cavities involve permanent enamel loss that cannot be repaired naturally. However, early-stage decay (demineralization) can be slowed or reversed with:

1. High-Fluoride Products: Use dentist-prescribed fluoride gel or toothpaste to promote remineralization.
2. Xylitol Gum: Chew sugar-free gum with xylitol to reduce bacteria and stimulate saliva.
3. Avoid Sugars: Eliminate sugary foods and drinks to prevent further acid production.

These steps may help early decay over weeks or months, but established cavities require professional treatment. Claims of healing cavities in two days are misleading and not supported by science.

Preventing Cavities Between Teeth

Preventing interproximal cavities requires consistent oral hygiene and lifestyle habits:

1. Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush for two minutes, covering all tooth surfaces.
2. Floss Daily: Use dental floss or a Waterpik to clean between teeth where brushes can’t reach.
3. Use Fluoride Mouthwash: Rinse to strengthen enamel and kill bacteria. Avoid mouthwash for children under 6 unless advised by a dentist.
4. Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods: Reduce candy, soda, chips, and sticky foods like dried fruit that cling to teeth.
5. Eat Tooth-Healthy Foods: Choose fruits, vegetables, dairy, and whole grains to boost saliva and clean teeth naturally.
6. Stay Hydrated: Drink water (preferably fluoridated tap water) to wash away food and neutralize acids.
7. Visit Your Dentist: Schedule checkups every six months for cleanings and X-rays to catch cavities early.
8. Consider Dental Sealants: Protective coatings on back teeth can prevent food buildup in grooves.
9. Avoid Tobacco: Smoking or chewing tobacco increases plaque and dry mouth risk.
10. Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Xylitol-based gum reduces bacteria and boosts saliva.

Complications of Untreated Cavities

Ignoring interproximal cavities can lead to serious issues:

1. Pain and Discomfort: Worsening pain that disrupts eating and daily life.
2. Tooth Abscess: Bacterial infection forming a pus pocket, potentially spreading to the jaw or bloodstream.
3. Tooth Loss: Severe decay may require extraction, affecting appearance and chewing.
4. Bone Loss: Infection can damage jawbone around the tooth.
5. Shifting Teeth: Tooth loss can cause remaining teeth to shift, affecting bite and alignment.
6. Systemic Infections: In rare cases, untreated abscesses can lead to life-threatening conditions like sepsis.

When to See a Dentist

Visit a dentist if you experience:

1. Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
2. Visible holes, pits, or dark spots on or between teeth.
3. Pain when biting or chewing.
4. Chronic bad breath or a bad taste despite good hygiene.
5. Swelling, redness, or pus around a tooth or gums.

Regular dental exams (every six months) are essential to detect hidden cavities before symptoms appear. Facilities like the Cleveland Clinic offer comprehensive dental care to diagnose and treat cavities effectively.

Conclusion

Knowing if you have a cavity between your teeth starts with recognizing signs like pain, sensitivity, or bad breath, but these sneaky cavities often require dental X-rays for confirmation. By brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can prevent interproximal cavities and catch them early.

While home remedies like fluoride rinses can support early decay management, established cavities need professional treatments like fillings or root canals. Don’t let a cavity between your teeth escalate to pain or tooth loss—stay proactive with good oral hygiene and seek expert care from providers like the Cleveland Clinic. Your smile deserves it!

Frequently Asked Questions

How to check a cavity in teeth at home?

Use a dental mirror and flashlight to look for dark spots or pits between teeth. Test for sensitivity with hot or cold foods, or check if flossing causes pain. Always confirm with a dentist via X-rays.

Can you fix a cavity between teeth?

Yes, cavities between teeth can be fixed with fillings, root canals, or crowns, depending on severity. Early decay may be reversed with fluoride treatments, but professional care is needed for established cavities.

How do you know if you have a hidden cavity?

Hidden cavities may cause subtle sensitivity, pain when biting, or bad breath. They’re often detected only by dental X-rays during routine checkups, as they’re not visible to the naked eye.

How to tell if it’s a cavity or a crack?

Cavities cause sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets and may show dark spots. Cracked teeth cause sharp pain when biting or releasing pressure. A dentist uses X-rays or exams to differentiate.

How to remove tooth decay yourself?

You can’t remove decay yourself, as it requires professional tools. Use fluoride toothpaste and floss to manage early decay, but see a dentist for fillings or other treatments.

How to heal cavities in 2 days at home?

Healing cavities in 2 days is impossible, as cavities involve permanent enamel loss. Fluoride and a low-sugar diet can slow early decay, but professional treatment is needed for true cavities.

Cavity in between teeth treatment?

Treatments include fillings for moderate cavities, root canals for deep decay, crowns for weakened teeth, or extraction for severe cases. A dentist will assess via X-rays.

What does a cavity look like?

Cavities may appear as dark spots (brown, black, or white), pits, or holes. Interproximal cavities are hard to see without dental tools or X-rays.

How to fix a cavity between teeth at home?

You can’t fix a cavity at home, but fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and avoiding sugars can slow early decay. Professional fillings or other treatments are required for true cavities.