Unbiased oral health information

Glossary

Caries

The bacterial illness that causes tooth decay (cavities). It is believed that a single species of bacteria, Streptococcus mutans causes the vast majority of cavities in teeth. These bacteria are capable of reducing sugars (both simple sugars and complex sugars) to acids and enzymes that destroy tooth structure.
Learn more: Diagnoses › Caries

Tooth decay (also called dental caries, or cavities)

Caries has created extensive damage in this lower molar tooth.

Methamphetamine use and improper nutrition led to severe tooth enamel damage

Although bacteria may have played a role in the decay of these teeth, the job was mainly done with frequent consumption of a phosphoric acid-containing soft drink.