Dental Caries

Dental caries, or tooth decay, is a multifactorial oral disease caused by the interaction of bacteria, dietary sugars, host factors, and time. Acid-producing bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans ferment carbohydrates and produce acids that demineralize enamel and dentin, leading to cavity formation. Factors such as poor oral hygiene, high sugar intake, reduced salivary flow, deep pits and fissures, and socioeconomic conditions increase caries risk. The disease progresses from early enamel demineralization to dentinal and pulpal involvement if untreated. Diagnosis is done through clinical examination and radiographs. Prevention includes proper oral hygiene, fluoride use, dietary control, pit and fissure sealants, and regular dental visits. Management ranges from remineralization therapies for early lesions to restorative procedures and endodontic treatment for advanced cases. Dental caries remains a major global public health concern but is largely preventable.