|
| |
Glossary
|
| New terms
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
| MOI toothbrushing systemToothbrushing system designed particularly for toddlers (from 2 to 3 years), in which first the masticatory surfaces, then the outer, and finally the inner surfaces are cleaned. | |
|
|
|
| MolarsGrinding teeth; large, permanent, multi-cusp, posterior teeth. The first molars (six-year molars) erupt into the mouth, behind the deciduous molars, at around 6 years of age. Together with the permanent incisors - they are the first permanent teeth to appear in the mouth. The second molars erupt in about the 12th year of life, while the wisdom teeth may not appear until adulthood. The eruption of the six-year molars (i.e. roughly when the child starts school) is the time to switch from elmex children's toothpaste to an adult toothpaste with a higher fluoride content. | |
|
|
|
| MouthrinseProprietary, active solution to supplement daily oral hygiene. The following types of mouthrinses are available: fluoride-containing rinses , such as elmex anticariogenic dental rinse, which are used primarily for caries prophylaxis; elmex SENSITIVE PLUS dental rinse was specifically developed for individuals suffering from exposed dental necks. meridol mouthrinse regenerates irritated gums by inactivating existing plaque and inhibiting the formation of new plaque. | |
|
|
|
| OlaflurSpecial fluoride compound contained in elmex preparations. The amine fluoride olaflur is particularly effective in mineralizing and protecting the teeth for optimal caries prophylaxis. Their special chemical structure (wetting agents) enables olaflur to accumulate quickly and effectively on the teeth surfaces, where it promotes the formation of a fluoride-containing protective layer. This layer is particularly effective in protecting the tooth from acid attack. At the same time, the saliva - together with the fluoride - can more easily reach the narrow interdental spaces and pits of the molars, i.e. inaccessible sites where caries is particularly likely to start. | |
|
|
|
| Oral hygieneMeasures for removing bacterial plaque. Aids to oral hygiene in the home include toothbrushes, toothpastes, dental rinses, mouthrinses, dental floss, dental sticks and interdental brushes. | |
|
|
|
| Paediatric dental careSince milk teeth are the placeholders for the second set of permanent teeth, regular dental care is important from the appearance of the very first tooth. This is the time when fluoridation for caries prophylaxis is particularly important. Initially, the once-daily use of a pea-sized portion of a special children's toothpaste (elmex children's toothpaste) with a reduced fluoride content is sufficient (up until the second year and then twice daily). Also recommended is the use of a special training toothbrush. The actual toothbrushing is still performed once a day by the parents, but the children can learn how to brush their teeth at the same time. Systematic cleaning of all teeth surfaces (MOI toothbrushing system) leads to an improved result. As well as basic dental care, a healthy, teeth-friendly diet is also important. Too many sweets, sticky foods or the constant sucking on sweet teas will expose the teeth to sustained attack. It is much better to confine sugar consumption to fewer occasions, followed by toothbrushing. The additional administration of fluoride tablets may prove beneficial in individual cases, but should be discussed with the dentist or paediatrician. | |
|
|
|
| PellicleEnamel outer film. Permanent and invisible thin film covering the teeth and consisting predominantly of salivary proteins. | |
|
|
|
| PeriodontitisInflammatory destruction of the tissues that support the teeth (periodontium). If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to teeth loosening and, ultimately, teeth loss. It is caused by the presence of certain bacteria in plaque. In contrast with gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), the damage caused by periodontitis is not completely repairable, although the progression of the condition can be delayed by professional plaque removal, regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene. | |
|
|
|
| pHA measure of the acidity of a solution, stated in figures from 1 to 14. 7 = neutral, below 7 = acidic, above 7 = alkaline. The prevailing pH in the mouth is normally between 6.5 and 7.5. After the consumption of sugary foods, however, the pH of the plaque environment drops after just 2-3 minutes, possibly to the critical level of pH 5.5 and below. Enamel is decalcified in this acidic environment.
If the teeth are not subsequently cleaned, it will take approx. 30 minutes before the conditions in the plaque are neutralized by the action of saliva and the pH rises back up to a level at which enamel decalcification no longer occurs. The pH only returns to its normal level after approx. 60 minutes. | |
|
|
|
| PlaqueTough coating that adheres to the tooth surfaces, primarily along the gum margins. Plaque consists largely of bacteria. 1 mg of wet plaque contains approx. 250 million bacteria. These are so small that they are only visible and identifiable under the microscope.
Most of these bacteria are responsible for the production of tooth-damaging acids. While one might imagine that saliva would be capable of neutralizing these acids, it hardly has any effect against this "superior force". Moreover, certain bacteria excrete substances that make the plaque coating so sticky and strongly adherent.
The plaque can be removed only by mechanical means. But it can be stained with tablets or fluid (revealers) to make it more easily visible. This identifies those spots where better cleaning is required. Teeth thus affected feel "furry" to the tongue. | |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
