Definition

1. Noun:
   • A disease of the teeth characterized by the softening and destruction of the enamel and dentin, leading to cavities: It is the localized, progressive decay of tooth structure caused by bacterial activity.

Usage

• The term "dental caries" is a formal, medical term used to describe the condition of tooth decay or cavities. It is typically used in clinical, academic, or public health contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The dentist explained that the pain was caused by advanced dental caries.
  • Fluoride in toothpaste helps prevent dental caries.
  • A diet high in sugar is a major risk factor for developing dental caries.

Advanced Usage

• "The etiology of dental caries": Refers to the cause and development of the disease.
  • The lecture focused on the complex etiology of dental caries, involving bacteria, diet, and host factors.

Variants and Related Words

• Caries (n): Often used interchangeably with "dental caries," though "caries" can technically refer to bone decay in other contexts. In dentistry, it is understood to mean tooth decay.
  • The X-ray revealed caries in two molars.
• Tooth decay (n): A common, non-technical synonym.
• Cavity (n): A colloquial term for the hole or pit formed by caries.
  • The dentist filled the cavity.

Synonyms

• Tooth decay: The most common general synonym.
• Cavities: Often used in the plural to describe the condition.
• Dental decay: A formal alternative.

Related Phrases

• "Risk for dental caries": Susceptibility to developing cavities.
  • Children with frequent snacking have a higher risk for dental caries.
• "Management of dental caries": The process of treating and controlling tooth decay.
  • The course covers the modern management of dental caries.

Related Idioms

Noun

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