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Calcium fluorideChemical compound formed on the tooth surface as a result of the use of fluoride-containing dental care preparations. If the tooth is attacked by acid, this compounds acts as a protective layer by immediately providing a source of minerals for repair. Amine fluoride forms a particularly adherent covering layer of calcium fluoride. | |
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CaninesLargest, often pointed, front teeth between the four anterior incisors and the first molars. The change from deciduous dentition (milk teeth) to permanent canines is completed by about the age of 10–12 years. | |
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CarbohydratesOrganic compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Examples include sugar or starch. Certain carbohydrates – particular sugars – are very rapidly broken down by plaque bacteria into acid, resulting in damage to the dental enamel (caries). | |
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CariesMicroorganisms are present in everyone's mouth and feed off readily utilizable substances – particularly sugars. The resulting excreted products of metabolism (acids) attack and decalcify (demineralise) the dental enamel. This initially produces a patch of decalcification (chalk fleck/initial lesion) beneath the still intact enamel surface; progression of the decalcification eventually produces a breach, or hole, in the enamel surface: "caries" is the result. | |
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Caries prophylaxisMeasures for preventing caries. The most effective preventive measure in recent decades has been the fluoridation of toothpastes. Regular oral hygiene, a healthy diet and regular dental check-ups are additional caries prophylaxis measures. | |
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Cervical cariesSince dentine has no protective enamel coating around exposed dental necks (dental roots) it is very susceptible to caries at these points. The regular use of elmex SENSITIVE PLUS toothpaste and dental rinse, together with weekly brushing with elmex gel, leads to significant fluoride build-up and thus provides effective protection against dentine caries and painful hypersensitivity. | |
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Chewing gumChewing sugar-free gum after eating promotes the flow of saliva to help accelerate the neutralization of teeth-damaging acids in the mouth. However, gum chewing in no way replaces toothbrushing, since it cannot remove existing dental plaque. | |
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ChlorhexidineActive ingredient in many mouthrinses for controlling bacteria and certain fungi and viruses. Acts against plaque bacteria, prevents the formation of plaque for several hours. Side effects include reversible discoloration of the teeth, tongue and oral mucosa and an impaired sense of taste. | |
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Collective prophylaxisPreventive health measures aimed at large sections of a country's population. Collective dental prophylactic measures include the fluoridation of drinking water and (where implemented on a broad basis) table salt. | |
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Concealed cariesCaries that cannot be seen at the tooth surface, but that has become relatively extensive, e.g. between the teeth. | |
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