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Abrasiveness of toothpastesThe way in which a toothpaste acts on the tooth's hard substances (enamel, dentine) depends on the hardness, quantity and size of its abrasive substances. elmex SENSITIVE plus toothpaste incorporates microfine plastic spheres that protect the softer dentine, particularly in cases where the dental necks are exposed: the abrasiveness of this toothpaste is very low (RDA 30). Moderately abrasive toothpastes possess an RDA value of 70–80, while toothpastes with an RDA of 100 and above are highly abrasive and not suitable for daily use. | |
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Acid protection testSince the structure of eggshells is similar to that of enamel, the effect of elmex amine fluorides can be demonstrated using an egg: placing a chicken's egg in an egg-cup filled with elmex gel for 3 minutes increases the acid resistance of the eggshell. If the egg is then placed in household vinegar, the shell will only dissolve, as demonstrated by air bubble formation, at those points where the acid-inhibiting protective layer is missing. See the animated version of the elmex egg test. | |
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Alcohol content of mouthrinsesCertain mouthrinses contain alcohol as a solvent for other constituents. All GABA mouthrinses are alcohol-free. | |
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AllergyA powerful reaction to certain substances that are normally harmless to humans (e.g. house dust, pollen, animal hairs, but also flavourings or preservatives, e.g. menthol). | |
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AmalgamFilling material used in cases where caries has progressed to such an extent that the dentist needs to drill and fill the tooth. Although amalgam has been used for decades and has proved both effective and economical, current discussions are focusing on the release of mercury from these fillings. | |
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Amine fluorideSpecial organic fluoride compound included in elmex preparations that is highly effective in mineralising and protecting the teeth for optimal caries prophylaxis. Scientific studies have confirmed the efficacy of amine fluorides. Their special chemical structure (wetting agents) enables them to accumulate quickly and effectively on the tooth surface to promote the formation of a fluoride-containing layer that protects the tooth from acid attack. At the same time, the saliva - together with the amine fluoride - can reach the narrow interdental spaces and pits of the molars more easily, i.e. inaccessible sites where caries is particularly likely to start. | |
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Amine fluoride/stannous fluorideInternationally patented combination of active ingredients in the meridol preparations. Scientific studies have shown that this combination promotes the regeneration of irritated gums, thereby effectively preventing gum problems. | |
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Approximal cariesCaries in the interdental space. Very often occurs as a result of negligent cleaning of the interdental spaces. elmex amine fluorides form a protective layer on all tooth surfaces that guards against acid attack. | |
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Approximal space cleaningSee Interdental cleaning. | |
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Baby tea cariesRegular sucking on sugary drinks (e.g. baby teas) exposes the teeth to constant rinsing with these sugar-containing fluids, providing a constant source of nutrition for the acid-forming bacteria in the mouth. This can lead to severe tooth damage. Also known as sugar tea caries or nursing bottle caries. | |
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