Dental caries is a disease that affects almost 90% of the population, caused by the action of certain bacteria in the oral cavity. In the presence of these bacteria, carbohydrates are degraded into acidic products, which demineralize the dental structure. This destruction may be silent in early stages and may be only detectable by radiography. As the carious lesion progresses, it progressively destroys more dental structure, reaching the dental nerve, and gives rise to sensitivity to cold, hot and pain. When the nerve becomes necrotic, the pain may disappear as the bacteria invade the inside of the tooth toward the bone. In these cases abscesses may appear, which if left untreated can progress to more serious infections. The prevention of dental caries involves brushing twice a day with fluoride paste (above 1000 ppm fluoride), daily flossing, and oral hygiene consultations every 6 months. Early treatment of these lesions involves removal of the affected structure and replacement by restorative material. Depending on the state of destruction, other procedures may be required.

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