caries

/'keərii:z/

Thân thiện

A dentist points to a small area of caries on a patient's tooth model.

Definition

Noun 1. Tooth decay: A condition characterized by the softening and destruction of tooth structure, caused by acids produced by bacteria. It is the process that leads to cavities (holes) in the teeth. 2. Progressive decay: The process of decay itself, which, if untreated, can progress and ultimately lead to the loss of the tooth.

Usage

• Dental caries is the most common chronic disease in children.
• The dentist explained that the pain was caused by caries in the molar.
• Regular brushing helps prevent caries.

Advanced Usage

• Early childhood caries (ECC): A specific term for severe tooth decay in the teeth of infants and young children.
  • Public health programs aim to reduce the incidence of early childhood caries.
• Rampant caries: A term used to describe suddenly appearing, widespread, and rapidly progressing decay.
  • The patient's sugary diet contributed to a case of rampant caries.

Variants and Related Words

• Carious (Adjective): Describing a tooth or area of a tooth that is affected by decay.
  • The dentist needed to remove the carious tissue before placing a filling.

Synonyms

• Tooth decay
• Dental decay
• Cavity (Note: A "cavity" is typically the hole or result of caries, while "caries" is often the disease process.)

Related Phrases

• Dental caries: The full, most precise term for the disease.
  • Fluoride in toothpaste helps fight dental caries.
• Risk factors for caries: Elements that increase the likelihood of developing tooth decay, such as diet or oral hygiene habits.
  • Frequent snacking on sweets is a major risk factor for caries.

Học thuật

Noun

1. soft decayed area in a tooth; progressive decay can lead to the death of a tooth

Từ đồng nghĩa

• cavity
• dental caries
• tooth decay