---
title: "What Is Tooth decay? Dental Glossary | Town Center Dental"
description: "Tooth decay is damage to a tooth caused by acid that bacteria make from sugars. If it is not treated, it can cause pain, infection and tooth loss."
url: https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/tooth-decay
publisher: Town Center Dental
phone: +1-636-273-5866
quote: https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/request-appointment
---

Conditions

# Tooth decay

Tooth decay is damage to a tooth caused by acid that bacteria make from sugars. If it is not treated, it can cause pain, infection and tooth loss.

Tooth decay begins when bacteria in your mouth make acids that attack the surface of the tooth. This surface is the [enamel](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/enamel). The result can be a small hole, called a [cavity](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/cavity-dental-caries).

If decay is not treated, it can cause pain, infection and even tooth loss. It can reach the [tooth pulp](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/tooth-pulp) and lead to an abscess.

Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth help protect teeth. Once a hole has formed, a dentist has to repair it. Regular checkups let your dentist find decay when it is small. Ask your dentist about fluoride and sealants. Our office describes repairs on its [dental fillings page](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/services/dental-fillings).

[Town Center Dental can helpDental Fillings](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/services/dental-fillings)

## Related terms

-   [Cavity (dental caries)](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/cavity-dental-caries)
-   [Dental plaque](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-plaque)
-   [Enamel](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/enamel)
-   [Remineralization](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/remineralization)
-   [Fluoride treatment](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/fluoride-treatment)

## Sources

1.  [NIDCR: Tooth Decay](https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tooth-decay)
2.  [NIDCR: Tooth Decay](https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tooth-decay)

## Ready when you are

[Request an appointment](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/request-appointment)[Call (636) 273-5866](tel:+1-636-273-5866)