What does “Proximal surface” mean?
The proximal surface is the side of a tooth that faces the adjacent tooth. It includes the mesial surface, closer to the anterior midline, and the distal surface, farther from the midline.
Why is it hard to see?
Because this surface faces the adjacent tooth, parts of it cannot be seen from the front. If food becomes trapped or floss catches, the contact area and gums are checked together.
How do you check for cavities?
The spaces between teeth are examined, and radiographs may be taken to assess damage that cannot be seen from outside. Dark discoloration or the feel of dental floss alone does not establish the depth of decay.
Is it different from the contact point?
The proximal surface refers to the wide surface, and the contact point/contact area is the area where the two teeth actually touch. The location and shape of contact affects food entrapment and interdental care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can brushing alone clean the proximal surfaces?
There are areas between teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach sufficiently, so use dental floss or an interdental brush that fits the space.
If the dental floss keeps tearing, is it a cavity?
In addition to decay, rough restoration margins or tartar may cause floss to tear. A dentist should check the area where this repeatedly occurs.
Questions to understand proximal surfaces
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Are the contacts where food gets stuck open?
Explanation and evidenceCheck the contact between teeth, the shape of the restoration, and the condition of the gums.
Dentalcare · Surfaces of the Teeth - A choice suited to your condition
Which cleaning tool suits this space?
Explanation and evidenceYou will be guided on how to use dental floss and interdental brushes by distinguishing between narrow contact areas and wide spaces.
SDCEP · Oral hygiene aids
