dystrophic calcification [Gk, dys + trophe, nourishment; L, calx, lime, facere, to make] , 1. the pathological accumulation of calcium salts in necrotic or degenerated tissues. Compare metastatic calcification. 2. severe dental caries that are promoted by the sugars, acids, viscosity of liquids, and sometimes Streptococcus mutans in a bottle of milk or juice left in contact with a child’s primary teeth. This can also occur from contact with breast milk left in a sleeping child’s mouth. The condition is preventable; no child should be permitted to fall asleep nursing on any liquid other than plain water. Also called bottle mouth caries.
