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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.
Cavities, also referred to as tooth decay or caries, are holes in the teeth. Cavities are the second-most common health disorder in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health (the first is the common cold) and a very common disorder worldwide. tooth abscess is a complication of tooth decay. Bacteria get into the pulp of the tooth through the cavity and cause infection. Pus then collects in the center of the tooth, causing an abscess. Abscesses can also be caused by trauma to the tooth, such as chipping or breaking, according to the NIH.