Cavities (Dental Caries)

Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, occur when plaque—the sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth—combines with the sugars and starches in the food you eat. This combination produces an acid that attacks tooth enamel. If left untreated, a cavity can grow larger and affect deeper layers of your teeth, leading to severe toothache, infection, and even tooth loss. Early detection is key, as small cavities can be repaired with simple fillings, while deeper ones may require root canals or crowns.