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Caries

1. (Science: pathology) The molecular decay or death of a bone, in which it becomes softened, discoloured and porous.

It produces a chronic inflammation of the periosteum and surrounding tissues and forms a cold abscess filled with a cheesy, fetid, puslike liquid, which generally burrows through the soft parts until it opens externally by a sinus or fistula.

2. (Science: dentistry) Another name for cavities due to tooth decay, dental caries.