Dental cavities, or caries, are localized areas of tooth decay caused by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. These acids dissolve the tooth's enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth, creating a cavity or hole. Cavities can range in size from small, barely visible pits to large, deep holes that can cause pain and lead to tooth loss.
Dentists use a variety of methods to see cavities, including visual examination, dental X-rays, and transillumination. Visual examination involves looking at the teeth with a dental mirror and explorer to check for any signs of decay. Dental X-rays use low levels of radiation to create images of the teeth and jaws, which can reveal cavities that are not visible during a visual examination. Transillumination involves shining a light through the tooth to see if there are any dark areas that indicate the presence of a cavity.
