Define dental caries?

Dental caries, commonly known as tooth decay or cavities, is a bacterial infection that causes the demineralization and destruction of the hard tissues (enamel, dentin, and cementum) of the teeth. It is primarily caused by the interaction between bacteria in the mouth and the sugars and starches from food and drinks, which produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. If left untreated, dental caries can progress and lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss.