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Dentistry vocabulary · Dental Conditions

Tooth decay

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

nounCore term

In dentistry, tooth decay means: The everyday name for the slow destruction of a tooth by acids that bacteria produce. It starts as a white or brown spot and can grow into a cavity.

In Turkish: diş çürümesi, çürük

How it is used

The plain-language word for caries, used with patients, in leaflets and in public health campaigns. Decay can also stand alone: 'There's some decay under that filling.' It is uncountable.

Example sentences

  1. Sugary drinks between meals are a major cause of tooth decay.

  2. Fluoride toothpaste helps protect children against tooth decay.

Common collocations

  • prevent tooth decay
  • signs of tooth decay
  • early tooth decay
  • decay under a filling
  • cariesDamage to a tooth caused by acids that plaque bacteria make from sugar. It slowly dissolves enamel and dentin and, if untreated, can reach the pulp.
  • cavityA hole in a tooth caused by decay. In restorative dentistry it also means the space the dentist shapes in the tooth before placing a filling.
  • fluorideA mineral compound that makes enamel stronger and more resistant to acid, which helps to prevent decay. It is added to toothpaste and, in some places, to drinking water.
  • plaqueA soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth every day. If brushing and cleaning between the teeth do not remove it, it leads to decay and gum disease.

More terms: Dental Conditions

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.