|
|
|
|
|
DemineralizationDecalcification; removal of minerals from enamel by acid. Tooth damage (caries) occurs when demineralization processes predominate. Regular use of elmex products inhibits demineralization and promotes remineralization = caries protection. | |
|
|
|
|
Dental assistant (DA)Assists the dentist with patient procedures and carries out other important tasks in the dental practice, e.g. disinfection and sterilization. In Switzerland, dental assistants undergo a 3-year training course and, if successful, receive a diploma approved by the Swiss Federal Office for Industry and Labour (BIGA). | |
|
|
|
|
Dental calculus (tartar)Mineralized = calcified, hard deposit on teeth, formed wherever bacterial plaque persists long enough to incorporate mineral salts. The calcification starts after just 24 hours or so. Calculus tends to form at those sites where the salivary glands lead into the oral cavity, i.e. on the inside of the lower incisors (opening of the sublingual glands) and on the outside of the upper, anterior molars (opening of the parotid gland). Dental calculus can form not only above, but also below the gingival margin, where it is known as a concretion. Concretions are produced as a result of the incorporation of minerals and blood components in bacterial plaque. Calculus can be removed only in the dental practice, not by toothbrushing. | |
|
|
|
|
Dental flossPlastic thread for cleaning the interdental spaces. Pull approx. 50 cm of dental silk from the dispenser, wrap around both middle fingers and pass over the thumbs. Carefully insert the taut thread into the interdental spaces by moving it back and forth. For cleaning in the lower jaw, pass the dental floss over the tips of the index fingers. It is important always to clean the surfaces of both teeth in the interdental space. elmex dental flosses have been designed to easily clean the interdental spaces and have been impregnated with amine fluoride to protect against caries. | |
|
|
|
|
Dental fluorosisCondition resulting from prolonged overdosage with fluoride. The mildest form produces white flecks on the enamel. Fluorosis occurs if excessive quantities of fluoride are regularly absorbed between the ages of 6 and 8 years. Since small children regularly swallow part of the toothpaste, elmex children's toothpaste, with its reduced fluoride content, should be used up to this age. | |
|
|
|
|
Dental hygienistSpecially trained individual concerned primarily with the treatment and management of periodontitis patients. Another of their key tasks is to advise patients on correct oral hygiene, with the aim of improving oral health. | |
|
|
|
|
Dental rinseProprietary active solution used as an effective supplement to daily oral hygiene. Dental rinses should be chosen according to the desired effect. elmex dental rinse with amine fluoride also provides added protection against caries, while elmex SENSITIVE PLUS dental rinse is particularly suitable for those suffering with exposed dental necks. Use once or twice daily. | |
|
|
|
|
Dental sticksSticks made from soft wood with a triangular cross-section used to clean the interdental spaces. These are particularly suitable for use while away from home and in situations where toothbrushing is not possible. Dental sticks are always inserted in the interdental spaces with the flat side against the gums to avoid damaging the gingival tissue. elmex dental sticks are impregnated with amine fluoride for anticariogenic protection. | |
|
|
|
|
Dental water jetWater jet used for removing food residues, etc. However, the dental water jet does not remove layers of adherent, bacterial plaque. Incorrect use with an excessively high water pressure can loosen the teeth in their sockets. | |
|
|
|
|
Dentinal cariesAs soon as any carious destruction of the enamel penetrates to the dentine, it can then progress much more rapidly: the tube structure of the dentine paves the way for the destructive process to attack the pulp directly. Since dentine has no protective enamel coating around exposed dental necks/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 provides effective protection against this "root caries". | |
|
|
|
|
