Above & Beyond Dentistry & Implants | Crowns, TMJ & TMD and Bridges

What Are Cavities? A Simple Guide to Understanding Tooth Decay.

Battle Ground Full Mouth Reconstruction

September 30, 2024

You would be hard-pressed to find more than a few people whose teeth don’t have some extent of tooth decay. Commonly known as cavities or caries, it’s prevalent around the world. While no one’s natural teeth are exempt from tooth decay, you can take action to prevent cavities.

The office of Above & Beyond Dentistry & Implants provides detailed information about your treatment options and any other relevant details, which empowers you to make informed decisions about your oral health. Our team prioritizes preventive care to help you maintain optimal oral health and avoid potential dental issues. 

The origin of tooth decay

Caries starts with food and bacteria. Plaque is a sticky substance that constantly forms on your teeth and gums. Plaque bacteria feast on the sugar in food and turn it into acid that attacks your teeth. If left there long enough, the acid starts to attack the outer hard enamel and keeps going through all of its other layers. Tooth pain or sensitivity may not show up until the decay has demineralized the enamel and reached the dentin layer, which is under the enamel and can become hypersensitive to hot or cold foods and beverages. 

When the decay has eaten away at the dentin, you will need a filling. If you don’t get a filling, the bacteria could reach the pulp, infect it and cause the need for root canal therapy to treat the infection and stop the decay. The worst-case scenario: The decay is so advanced that it sparks a tooth abscess and, perhaps, the need to extract the tooth. 

Stop decaybefore it starts.

Brush your teeth at least twice a day, with the final session being right before you get in bed for the night. Give extra attention to your molars; their surfaces aren’t as easily reachable as your front teeth. Use a toothpaste with fluoride and floss daily. 

If you want to “go the extra mile,” use a water irrigator after the string floss. The water will spray away the food particles that the string floss loosened, as well as get into the nooks and crannies that the string floss couldn’t access. 

Most importantly, see a dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups. Join the ranks of the patients who have experienced the excellence of care at the office of Above & Beyond Dentistry & Implants. Our team is dedicated to educating patients about effective protective measures. Please call us today for an appointment.

Exemplary Service & Quality Care

What Our Patients Are Saying

Above & Beyond Dentistry & Implants | Veneers, Full Mouth Reconstruction and Extractions

Noelle H.
Google

Highly recommend Above and Beyond! Dr Low, Jessi, Lisa/front office are an amazing team, dedicated to taking great care of their patients. Clearly a quality patient centric practice you can have confidence in!

Above & Beyond Dentistry & Implants | Root Canals, Extractions and Full Mouth Reconstruction

Matt W.
Google

Going to the dentist is rarely something you look forward to, however Dr. Low and his team do a fantastic job of making sure it's not something you have to dread. Over five years of service, I've received root canals, fillings, crowns, deep root scaling - you name it; and not only has all of the work held strong, the experience was the best I've had anywhere. The staff treats you like family, and they're always friendly, personable, and concerned for your comfort. Hard to imagine there's anywhere better in Clark County

Above & Beyond Dentistry & Implants | Veneers, Full Mouth Reconstruction and Extractions

Katelynn F.
Google

I've being going to Above & Beyond for many years now and continue to get amazing service. The recepetionists, hygienists, and Dr. Low are professional and very friendly. They explain questions or concerns thoroughly and I have never felt pressured when making decisions.

Above & Beyond Dentistry & Implants | Veneers, Full Mouth Reconstruction and Extractions

Emily S.
Google

Amazing team who really keep my personal goals of quality care in prolonging the life of my teeth and setting attainable goals to get them back to great health. They paid close attention to my hopes of keeping it affordable since I’m a single mom of one, my teeth have been the last of my priorities for the last three years due to finances. Thank you Above & Beyond Dentistry & Implants! Looking forward to a life long relationship with you all.

Above & Beyond Dentistry & Implants | Veneers, Full Mouth Reconstruction and Extractions

Jo Ann P.
Google

Dr. Low and his staff care about their patients and make you feel comfortable during your time with them. They make your dental experience as painless as possible.

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Contact Info

407 W Main Street, Ste 100
Battle Ground, WA 98604

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