What causes dental caries?

Dental caries are caused by bacteria and damaging substances, such as acid, that come into contact with your teeth. After you eat, normal bacteria in your mouth combine with food remnants and acids to create a sticky film called plaque. If you do not remove plaque regularly by flossing and brushing, it can build up or harden into a substance known as tartar. Plaque and tartar, in addition to bacteria and acids, can degrade the enamel on your tooth, leading to holes in the enamel called dental caries, or cavities. Dental caries usually begin as small, shallow holes; left untreated, they can become larger and deeper and potentially lead to tooth destruction or loss.