Historically, Streptococcus mutans has been identified as the primary microorganism responsible for dental caries. Other microorganisms, such as those in the Lactobacillus, Actinomyces and various Streptococcus genera, also play a role, albeit a lesser one.

Incipient caries are often painless and not easily visible to the untrained eye.
The first sign of caries is a white spot on the enamel.
Symptoms that may indicate a cavity include:
Sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods.
Visible lesions, which suggest a cavity.
A loss of enamel translucency, leading to a colour change that ranges from chalky white to brown, may indicate a developing cavity, even before pain is present.
Pain, if the cavity is not treated in time and has reached the nerve.

Dental caries is influenced by multiple factors, including:
-> Consumption of foods and drinks with high sugar content.
-> Snacking between meals.
-> A diet high in fermentable carbohydrates.
-> Improper oral hygiene practices, such as not brushing, using inadequate toothpaste, or neglecting flossing and interproximal brushing.
-> Decrease in the pH of saliva.
-> Waiting too long to brush after eating. The longer the wait, the more likely it is that bacteria will attack and acids will affect the tooth.
-> Inherited genetic susceptibility.
-> Certain medications alter the composition of the oral biofilm or pH, increasing the risk of cavities. Some medications, such as antacids and cough drops and syrups, contain sugar, which can particularly impact children. Sweetened medications can be particularly problematic for those with chronic illnesses and undergoing long-term therapies.
-> For young children, sleeping with a bottle of sugary liquids can also promote tooth decay.
-> Age, general health, fluorides, educational level, socioeconomic status, and a history of cavities.

Dental caries is the most common condition worldwide and the leading oral disease.
If not treated in time and properly, dental caries can lead to the destruction and/or loss of teeth, bad breath, affect other neighbouring teeth, and even cause other more serious conditions.
While dental caries can affect anyone, it is particularly common among diabetic patients, primarily due to elevated glucose levels in their saliva.