Cavities don’t always form on the visible surfaces of your teeth. In fact, many start in the tight spaces between your teeth, where brushing alone can’t always reach. These “interproximal cavities” are common and can be tricky to spot early on. The sooner you detect them, the easier they are to treat—often before they turn into painful problems. Here’s how to recognize the signs that you may have a cavity forming between your teeth.
Sensitivity to Hot, Cold, or Sweet Foods
One of the earliest signs of an interproximal cavity is sensitivity. If you notice a sharp or lingering twinge when drinking iced beverages, sipping hot coffee, or eating sweets, decay between your teeth may be the cause.
This sensitivity happens because enamel has weakened in that hidden area, allowing temperature changes or sugary foods to affect the dentin underneath.
Pain or Discomfort When Chewing
If chewing on one side of your mouth causes discomfort or pain—especially when biting down—you may have a cavity forming in a tight space. Cavities between teeth can make certain foods feel unpleasant, particularly crunchy or sticky items that press into the gap.
Even mild pain is a sign worth paying attention to, since interproximal cavities often progress without much warning.
Bleeding or Swollen Gums Between Teeth
Cavities between teeth often irritate the nearby gums. If you notice bleeding when flossing a specific area, or if the gum between two teeth looks swollen or tender, decay may be developing beneath the surface.
While bleeding gums can also signal gingivitis, persistent irritation in the same spot may indicate a cavity close to the gumline.
Floss Getting Shredded or Stuck
If your floss consistently frays, shreds, or gets caught between two teeth, it may be catching on a rough patch caused by enamel breakdown. This is a common—but often overlooked—sign of an interproximal cavity.
Flossing should feel smooth; anything sharp or snagging is worth getting checked.
Visible Dark Spots or Holes (Sometimes)
Cavities between teeth aren’t always visible, but in more advanced stages, you might notice a darkened area, hole, or shadow near the contact point. By the time you can see it, the cavity is usually significant enough to require prompt treatment.
Because cavities between teeth develop in hidden places, dental X-rays are the most reliable way to detect them early. Regular checkups allow your dentist to spot decay long before symptoms appear, helping you avoid pain and prevent bigger problems.
About the Author
Dr. Gary C. Nawrocki has practiced dentistry for 4 decades. He is a 1980 graduate of the University of Florida and has amassed thousands of hours of continuing education over the year, taking courses at the Pankey Institute, the Seattle Institute, and SPEAR Education. He is a past president of the University of Florida Dental Alumni Association and a current member of the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you’re in need of restorative dentistry for cavities, schedule an appointment online or call us at (321) 783-7514.