How Do Dentists Find Hidden Cavities?
By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
Not all cavities are easy to see. Some hide between teeth or under old fillings. If these “hidden cavities” aren’t found early, they can grow bigger and cause pain, infections, or even tooth loss. So how do dentists find them?
One of the most common tools we use is dental X-rays. X-rays can show problems that the eye can’t see, like cavities between teeth or inside the tooth. At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, we use modern digital X-rays, which are quick, safe, and give us a clear picture of your teeth.
We also use special lights and magnification to check for tiny dark spots or changes in the tooth surface. Even a small change in color or texture can be a sign of decay.
Another method is tactile testing, which means gently checking the tooth with a dental instrument to see if the surface feels soft or sticky. Healthy enamel feels hard, so this can help us tell if decay is starting.
In some cases, we use intraoral cameras. These tiny cameras can take close-up pictures of your teeth, which helps us spot problems and show you exactly what we see.
Finding cavities early means easier, less costly treatment. A small cavity can often be fixed with a simple filling. If it goes unnoticed, you may need a crown, root canal, or even an extraction.
At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, we take a careful, thorough approach. We believe in catching problems early, explaining them clearly, and offering a no-judgment atmosphere so you feel comfortable during your care.
If it’s been more than six months since your last check-up, now is a great time to schedule. Early detection can save you time, money, and discomfort.