Carious is an adjective that describes a state of decay, erosion, or damage, particularly used to refer to the teeth. It is derived from the Latin word "caries," which means rottenness or decay. When something, such as a tooth, is carious, it is affected by dental caries, also known as tooth decay or cavities.
In dental terms, carious is often used by dentists or dental professionals to describe teeth that have developed cavities or decayed due to poor oral hygiene, bacterial infection, or other factors. Carious teeth typically exhibit symptoms such as toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks, discoloration, and visible holes or pits on the surface of the affected tooth. If left untreated, carious teeth can further deteriorate, leading to pain, plaque formation, gum disease, and even tooth loss.
To prevent or treat carious teeth, dental professionals may recommend a range of interventions, such as regular brushing and flossing, fluoride treatments, dental fillings, root canal therapy, or in severe cases, tooth extraction. Maintaining good oral hygiene, scheduling regular dental check-ups, and adopting a healthy lifestyle are effective ways to prevent the formation of carious teeth and promote dental wellness.
