Abstract

Dental caries, commonly referred to as tooth decay or cavities, remains one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide. Despite significant advances in dental health education and preventive care, caries continue to affect people of all ages. This article provides an in-depth overview of the etiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnosis, preventive strategies, and current treatment modalities for dental caries. Emphasis is placed on evidencebased approaches and the integration of preventive dentistry into public health frameworks. Dental caries, commonly referred to as tooth decay or cavities, is a prevalent chronic disease affecting individuals across all age groups worldwide. It results from the complex interplay between host factors, oral microbiota, dietary habits, and time, culminating in the demineralization and eventual destruction of dental hard tissues. The pathogenesis of caries is largely attributed to acidogenic and aciduric bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species, which metabolize fermentable carbohydrates to produce organic acids. These acids disrupt the dynamic equilibrium between demineralization and remineralization at the tooth surface. Despite advances in oral healthcare, dental caries remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in underserved populations where preventive care and education are limited. The prevention of dental caries hinges on a multifaceted approach, including oral hygiene practices, dietary modifications, fluoride therapy, and regular professional dental care. Fluoride, in particular, plays a critical role in enhancing enamel remineralization and inhibiting bacterial metabolism. In recent years, minimally invasive dentistry has gained prominence, emphasizing early detection, risk assessment, and conservative management strategies to preserve tooth structure. Treatment modalities now range from preventive resin restorations and remineralizing agents to more invasive interventions like restorative fillings and root canal therapy in advanced cases. Dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay or cavities, remains one of the most widespread chronic diseases globally, affecting individuals across all age groups. This condition results from a complex interplay between dietary sugars, dental plaque, acid-producing bacteria, and host factors over time. The demineralization of tooth enamel and dentin caused by acidogenic bacteria, particularly Streptococcus mutans, initiates the carious process. If left untreated, caries can progress to the pulp and periapical tissues, leading to pain, infection, tooth loss, and significant impacts on overall health and quality of life. Preventive measures, including proper oral hygiene, fluoride use, dietary modifications, and regular dental check-ups, are vital in controlling the disease. Advances in dental materials and minimally invasive restorative techniques now allow for more effective and conservative management of carious lesions. This article explores the etiology, risk factors, preventive strategies, and therapeutic approaches to dental caries, providing a comprehensive overview for clinicians, researchers, and public health professionals.

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of dental caries by exploring its etiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, and microbiological mechanisms. Furthermore, it delves into current preventive strategies and evolving treatment options, highlighting the importance of patient education, individualized care plans, and public health initiatives. Understanding the multifactorial nature of caries and implementing evidence-based preventive and therapeutic measures are essential for improving oral health outcomes and reducing the global burden of this disease.