What does “Proximal caries” mean?
Proximal caries is a cavity that occurs on the surfaces of adjacent teeth facing each other. Since this is an area that is difficult to see with the naked eye, the condition between the teeth and necessary radiographs are also examined.
Why may discovery be delayed?
The area below where the teeth touch each other is hidden from the outside. There may be a lesion even if there is no pain, and it is not possible to confirm that it is a cavity just by feeling that the dental floss is caught.
Does every lesion require drilling?
Assess whether cavities have formed on the surface, whether lesions are progressing, and the risk of cavities. The progression of early lesions can be controlled by managing fluoride, plaque, and diet, and can be distinguished from defects that require restoration.
What is important after treatment?
Contact between the teeth and a cleanable form must be restored. Prevent new cavities in natural teeth around the restoration by brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and interdental care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can there still be decay if it is not visible from the front?
Proximal surfaces may be obscured by neighboring teeth. Depth and progression are assessed through clinical examination and necessary imaging.
If I floss, will existing holes disappear?
Floss helps control plaque, but it cannot rebuild lost tooth structure. The presence or absence of a cavity helps distinguish preventive care from restorative treatment.
Questions needed to understand proximal caries
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Is this an initial lesion with a retained surface?
Explanation and evidenceRather than only looking at the darkness of the image, the actual defect and progression are evaluated together.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research · Tooth Decay - A choice suited to your condition
How do I clean between treatment areas?
Explanation and evidenceSelect the dental floss or interdental tool that matches your tooth contact and check how to use it.
SDCEP Oral hygiene aids
