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BacteriaMicroorganisms. Over time, the bacteria living in the mouth form firmly adherent layers (plaque) which, when provided with sugar, constantly produce acid and thus promote tooth damage (caries). Metabolic products from these plaque bacteria can also inflame the gums. | |
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Bass techniqueThe modified Bass technique is a technique of brushing your teeth which has proven its worth both for people with healthy gums and for gingivitis and periodontitis patients. This technique concentrates on cleaning at the gum margins. The toothbrush is positioned on the gums at an angle of 45° and the plaque is removed by means of small circular movements (vibratory motions). Due to its flat bristle profile the meridol toothbrush is ideally suited for the Bass technique. | |
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Bleaching of teethWhitening of teeth by chemical means. Teeth are bleached under dental supervision in order to ensure that the teeth and gums are not damaged by the procedure. | |
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Bleeding gumsThe most important sign of gingivitis: the gums bleed, but do not hurt. To allow the inflammation to heal and the bleeding to subside, as much of the bacterial plaque as possible must be removed. meridol toothpaste and meridol mouthrinse regenerate irritated gums by inactivating existing bacterial plaque and inhibiting the formation of new layers. The meridol toothbrush supplements this oral care system in an ideal way, as it removes plaque particularly thorough, especially at the gum margins, whilst at the same time having an extremely low potential for causing gingival harm. | |
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BristlesAn important part of the toothbrush. As a rule, these should be made of synthetic material, as natural bristles can easily break and the sharp broken edges can injure the gums. Rounded ends on plastic bristles are important in preventing injury to the teeth and gums. Hard bristles should be avoided since they can cause damage to the tooth's hard substance. Soft to medium bristles are recommended (see Filaments). | |
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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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