Preventive Dentistry Vocabulary

Sucrose

• A type of sugar that is particularly harmful to dental health and directly linked to dental decay.

• A natural sweetener derived from fruits and vegetables.

• A type of artificial sweetener used in diet foods.

• A carbohydrate that is beneficial for dental health.

Plaque

• A sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if not properly removed.

• A type of dental floss used to clean between teeth.

• A whitening agent used in toothpaste.

• A hard substance that forms on the surface of teeth.

Bass Method

• A technique that involves brushing teeth in circular motions.

• An effective tooth brushing technique that involves holding the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and using gentle, short back-and-forth motions.

• A method that requires using a hard-bristled brush for effective cleaning.

• A technique that suggests brushing only the front teeth for two minutes.

Remineralization

• The process of restoring minerals to weakened tooth enamel, which can help reverse early stages of tooth decay.

• A method of whitening teeth using chemical agents.

• The process of removing plaque and tartar from teeth.

• A technique for straightening misaligned teeth.

Gumline

• The area where the teeth meet the gums, which requires special attention during brushing and flossing to prevent gum disease.

• The part of the tooth that is visible above the gums.

• The area where plaque accumulates the fastest.

• The space between the teeth that is cleaned by flossing.

Preventive Dentistry

• A branch of dentistry that focuses on maintaining oral health and preventing dental issues through a combination of at-home care and professional dental services.

• A type of dentistry that primarily deals with cosmetic procedures and aesthetic improvements.

• A field of dentistry that specializes in surgical interventions for dental diseases.

• A branch of dentistry that focuses on orthodontics and alignment of teeth.

ADA Seal of Acceptance

• A symbol indicating that a dental product has been evaluated for safety and effectiveness by the American Dental Association.

• A certification for dental products that are the cheapest on the market.

• A mark given to dental products that are only available in the United States.

• A label for dental products that are recommended by celebrity dentists.

Disclosing Solution

• A product that temporarily stains plaque on teeth, making it easier to see areas missed during brushing and helping to improve brushing technique.

• A mouthwash that kills bacteria and freshens breath.

• A toothpaste that whitens teeth and removes stains.

• A dental floss that helps to remove food particles between teeth.

Fluoride

• A mineral that helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and remineralizing early stages of decay.

• A type of sugar that promotes tooth decay.

• A vitamin that enhances gum health.

• A chemical used in toothpaste to whiten teeth.

Interdental Aids

• Tools designed to clean between teeth, especially in larger spaces where floss may not be effective.

• A type of toothpaste that helps in whitening teeth.

• Mouthwash that eliminates bad breath.

• Dental floss that is flavored for better taste.