Dental Caries
Type: Symptom
Definition
Permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of the teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes.
Clinical Details
Without the protective hardening provided by fluoride, the enamel is easily dissolved by the acidic byproducts of oral bacteria digesting dietary sugars. The enamel breaks down rapidly, allowing bacteria to invade the deeper, softer dentin layer. This leads to rampant and aggressive cavity formation.