Examples from literature

• Decay of the teeth, or caries, commences externally, appearing upon the enamel or bony structure of the teeth. 
• Dental caries, or decay, is at first largely a chemical process and affects the tooth proper. 
• The eating of sweets, and especially the sticky sweets—preserves and the like—was recognized as an important source of caries. 
• The teeth are interesting in showing marked rotting or "caries," hitherto unknown in prehistoric skulls. 
• Wild animals are not subject to caries or dental decay, as are man and domesticated animals.