If there is one thing you can rely on, it’s that you’ll notice the gap in your front teeth every time you see your smile in the mirror or a photograph. It has been there as long as you can remember, but now it’s a new year, and you’re eager to make a change. While veneers and crowns have been go-to solutions for closing unwanted gaps for decades, there is now a much faster and more affordable option that is just as effective—dental bonding. What is it, how does it work, and can it help you finally get rid of that annoying space?

Cavities are one of the most common oral healthcare issues. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, 91% of adults 20 years or older have had at least one cavity in their lives. It’s important to address them as soon as possible, because if left alone, they can lead to other issues like infection or even eventual tooth loss.

In an ideal world, we would call our dentist as soon as we notice any deterioration. The truth is, though, that we often don’t even know that we have a cavity until some damage is already done. This can be especially true for cavities between your teeth (interproximal) that you can’t see. Keep reading to learn indicators that let you know you might have an interproximal cavity so you can catch it early on.