Want to talk to us about enrolling in a plan or have a question? Weâre happy to help. Call us at one of the phone numbers below â weâve listed the hours when you can reach us. Tennessee TTY/TB users can access the Tennessee Relay Service at 1-800-848-0298.
For caries of bone, see Osteolysis. Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, cavities, or caries, is a breakdown of teeth due to activities of bacteria. The cavities may be a number of different colors from yellow to black. Symptoms may include pain and difficulty with eating.
Caries â The medical term for tooth decay. Cavity â A hole or weak spot in the tooth surface caused by decay. Dentin â The middle layer of a tooth, which makes up most of the tooth's mass. Enamel â The hard, outermost surface of a tooth. Fluoride â A chemical compound containing fluorine that is used to treat water or applied directly to teeth to prevent decay.