What is a tooth cavity and how do you get one?

Hole in a tooth: A tooth cavity is a hole in your tooth caused by bacteria which can break down sugars in your mouth and produce acids. These acids burn holes in your teeth. When a spot gets deep enough, it is called a cavity.

A cavity is a hole: A tooth cavity is a description that usually means there is a tooth with some missing structure. Although this could be caused by trauma, or attrition, the term usually refers to a demineralization the the tooth caused by the acidic byproducts of bacterial growth.

A hole: Simply speaking, a cavity in a tooth is a hole. Most frequently the hole is caused by tooth decay. Depending on the depth and extent of the cavity, it may need a small filling, or a root canal treatment and a crown. In extreme cases, cavities are so extensive that a tooth must be extracted. It's best to catch cavities early when they are small.