Hidden Cavities: Understanding and Treatment

Dr. Irina Yerofeyeva, dentist at Kandinsky Clinic, explains hidden cavities - one of the most dangerous forms of tooth decay that can lead to serious complications including pulpitis, periodontitis, and tooth loss.

Understanding Hidden Cavities

Hidden cavities develop on invisible contact surfaces between teeth where food frequently becomes trapped and plaque forms. These areas are difficult to clean with a toothbrush. The decay develops inside the tooth, forming a cavity "enclosed" by intact enamel, with minimal damage to the outer enamel layer.

Enamel, the hard, translucent tissue covering the tooth crown, protects against external factors. When decay penetrates beneath the enamel, it begins destroying the softer, more porous dentin. Since dentin contains numerous nerve fibers, decay reaching this hard tissue can cause pain and sensitivity.

These enamel-enclosed cavities are challenging to detect visually as the enamel maintains its color and shape. Patients may remain unaware until severe pain, swelling, or other complications develop. By then, the decay may have damaged the tooth's nerve and blood vessels (pulp), causing inflammation and infection, potentially requiring complex and costly treatments like endodontics or implants.

Diagnosis Methods

Detecting hidden cavities requires additional diagnostic tools such as X-rays and CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography). These examinations help identify hidden decay processes even in early stages.

X-rays provide two-dimensional views of internal tooth decay, showing contact cavities as "darkened" areas on tooth surfaces. CBCT offers more advanced, precise diagnostics, creating three-dimensional images of teeth and surrounding tissues. This technology reveals cavities from all angles while also detecting cracks, fractures, cysts, and other dental pathologies.

Treatment Approach

Treatment begins with accessing the cavity by opening the contact point. The dentist then removes infected tissues using specialized instruments, followed by:

Cavity Restoration:

• Treating the cavity with antiseptics and adhesives
• Filling with composite material
• Polishing and adjusting the restoration

Endodontic Treatment (if necessary):

• Removing inflamed or necrotic pulp
• Cleaning and widening canals
• Filling canals with gutta-percha
• Restoring the tooth cavity
• Reinforcing with posts or crowns when needed

Prevention Guidelines

Maintain proper oral hygiene:

• Brush twice daily using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove debris between teeth
• Use a water flosser at least once daily
• Rinse with alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash
• Schedule dental check-ups twice yearly

Kandinsky Clinic offers quality, painless treatment using modern equipment and materials. Our dentists provide comprehensive care to maintain your dental health and prevent complications from hidden cavities.