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== Introduction ==
== Introduction ==
[[Image:Toothinfection.gif|thumb|right|20px|<small><center>Stages of tooth infection (Courtesy of Alun Williams (RVC))</center></small>]]
[[Image:Toothinfection.gif|thumb|right|200px|<small><center>Stages of tooth infection (Courtesy of Alun Williams (RVC))</center></small>]]
Dental caries is a plaque-induced demineralization of the teeth caused by the action of cariogenic bacteria on fermentable carbohydrates. The acid which is produced demineralizes the enamel and dentine. Bacteria is then able to invade the dentine and dentinal tubules, undermining the enamel and eventually causing the collapse of the enamel and cavitation of the tooth. The occlusal surfaces of the molar teeth are particularly prone to caries.
Dental caries is a plaque-induced demineralization of the teeth caused by the action of cariogenic bacteria on fermentable carbohydrates. The acid which is produced demineralizes the enamel and dentine. Bacteria is then able to invade the dentine and dentinal tubules, undermining the enamel and eventually causing the collapse of the enamel and cavitation of the tooth. The occlusal surfaces of the molar teeth are particularly prone to caries.