Understanding Dental Caries and Lesions: What You Need to Know
Tooth decay is one of the most common oral health problems worldwide—and yet, many people don’t fully understand how it starts, progresses, or how to stop it in its tracks. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at dental caries and lesions, how they develop, and what you can do to protect your smile.
What Are Dental Caries?
Dental caries, commonly referred to as cavities, are areas of tooth decay caused by the destruction of tooth enamel. They are the result of a complex process involving bacteria, sugar, and time.
Caries begin as non-cavitated lesions—small areas of demineralization that often appear as white spots on the enamel surface. At this stage, the damage is reversible. But without proper care, these lesions can break down further, leading to cavities that require restorative treatment.
How Do Caries Develop?
Dental caries form when acid-producing bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars from food and drinks. These acids gradually break down the minerals in the tooth enamel, leading to:
Demineralization – the early, reversible stage.
Enamel breakdown – irreversible without dental treatment.
Dentin involvement – when decay progresses past the enamel.
Pulp damage – advanced cases can lead to infection or tooth loss.
Signs of Early Lesions
The earliest signs of caries may include:
White or chalky spots on the teeth
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
Discoloration or visible pits in the enamel
Unfortunately, early caries often develop without pain, which is why regular dental checkups are so important.
Prevention and Treatment
The good news is that dental caries are preventable—and even early lesions can be treated without drilling if caught in time.
Preventive tips
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss once a day to remove plaque between teeth
Reduce sugar intake, especially sticky or frequent snacks
Drink water, especially fluoridated tap water
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams
Fluoride treatments to remineralize early lesions
Sealants to protect vulnerable areas
Dietary counseling to reduce caries risk
For more advanced decay, restorative options may include fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy.