Small cavities between teeth
Small cavities between teeth are hidden decay spots that need an examination and often bitewing radiographs to measure their depth.
The short answer
Small cavities between teeth are areas of tooth decay hidden in the contact surfaces, and they usually need an examination and bitewing radiographs to define their depth. Bacteria use sugars to produce acids that dissolve enamel and can progress into dentin. Contact-point decay is difficult to see directly because neighbouring teeth conceal the lesion.
How do sugars allow decay to progress between teeth?
Bacteria use sugars to produce acids that dissolve enamel and can progress into dentin. Contact-point decay is difficult to see directly because neighbouring teeth conceal the lesion.
What can you do to prevent decay between teeth?
Clean between the teeth daily with floss or an interdental brush, use fluoride toothpaste, and reduce frequent sugary drinks and snacks. Early enamel lesions may be monitored or treated with fluoride, while cavitated dentin usually needs a filling.
When should a hidden cavity between teeth be checked?
Book dental care when food repeatedly packs between teeth, floss catches or shreds, sensitivity develops, or a dark area persists. Pain, swelling, or a broken tooth can indicate deeper disease and needs prompt assessment.
Can a small cavity between teeth heal?
Can a small cavity between teeth heal? How are cavities between teeth found?
Frequently asked questions
Can a small cavity between teeth heal?
Bacteria use sugars to produce acids that dissolve enamel and can progress into dentin. Contact-point decay is difficult to see directly because neighbouring teeth conceal the lesion.
How are cavities between teeth found?
Clean between the teeth daily with floss or an interdental brush, use fluoride toothpaste, and reduce frequent sugary drinks and snacks. Early enamel lesions may be monitored or treated with fluoride, while cavitated dentin usually needs a filling.
Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.