Final answer:
Dental caries are lesions caused by bacterial overgrowth that result in tooth decay. Poor dental hygiene and dietary habits are primary causes, and in underdeveloped countries, such conditions are exacerbated by poor access to medical services and malnutrition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dental caries is a common disease characterized by the damage caused to the teeth by microbial lesions. This condition is primarily due to the overgrowth of oral bacteria, notably Streptococcus and Actinomyces species. Factors contributing to the proliferation of these bacteria are typically poor dental hygiene practices, which allow bacteria to feed on sugars in the mouth and release acids. These acids lead to soft tissue inflammation and degradation of enamel's calcium crystals, eventually causing tooth decay.
Additionally, enamel is vulnerable to both mechanical and chemical erosion despite its protective role for the underlying dentin and pulp cavity. In underdeveloped countries, where access to medical services may be limited, and issues like malnutrition and lack of fluoride in drinking water are more pronounced, the prevalence of dental caries can be particularly high.
To prevent the progression of tooth decay, prompt treatment is necessary. This can range from drilling and filling smaller areas of decay to performing a root canal if the pulp is affected. Without these interventions, infections can lead to abscesses and potentially spread to other parts of the body.