Which caries is located on a proximal surface (mesial or distal)?

• A. Proximal caries
• B. Root caries
• C. Occlusal caries
• D. Smooth surface caries

Answer: (A)

Proximal caries describe decay on the surfaces that lie between adjacent teeth, the mesial or distal surfaces. These areas are where teeth touch, so caries often start in the contact area and can be harder to detect without radiographs. The term directly matches the location described in the question, making it the best answer. The other types refer to different surfaces: root caries occur on root surfaces near the gingiva, occlusal caries on chewing surfaces, and smooth surface caries on exposed smooth surfaces away from contacts. Proximal caries are typically identified with bitewing radiographs because the contact areas can hide decay from clinical examination alone.