Preferred Term:
dental caries
Definition:
Localized destruction of the tooth surface initiated by decalcification of the enamel followed by enzymatic lysis of organic structures and leading to cavity formation. If left unchecked, the cavity may penetrate the enamel and dentin and reach the pulp.
Concept Schemes:
NALT Core
NALT Full
NALT Full
Broader Concept:
Entry Terms:
- dental decay
URI:
https://lod.nal.usda.gov/nalt/22511
Download this Concept:
RDF/XMLCreated 2006-01-19, last modified 2016-08-23
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