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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.
Definition. Tooth decay, which is also called dental cavities or dental caries, is the destruction of the outer surface (enamel) of a tooth. Decay results from the action of bacteria that live in plaque, which is a sticky, whitish film formed by a protein in saliva (mucin) and sugary substances in the mouth.avity 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.