Dental Caries

The clinical term for cavities, erosions through the enamel of the TEETH that expose the inner pulp and sometimes the NERVE of the tooth. A dentist is the health-care provider who diagnoses and treats dental caries. Untreated dental caries can lead to INFECTION of the tooth’s root structure and potentially an ABSCESS of the nerve canal, health conditions that require treatment with ANTIBIOTIC MEDICATIONS as well as dental care. The accumulation of BACTERIA can contribute to HALITOSIS (bad breath). A cavity that penetrates into the inner tooth often causes TOOTHACHE. Appropriate ORAL HYGIENE and routine dental care can help prevent dental caries.