Preventive Dentistry Terms
Fluoride, sealants, prophylaxis, hygiene routines — the vocabulary of keeping problems from starting.
7 prevention terms, A-Z
- Flossing — Flossing is the daily practice of cleaning between the teeth using a thin filament (string floss) or interdental device to remove plaque and food debris that a toothbrush cannot reach.
- Fluoride — Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps reverse early stages of tooth decay.
- Interdental Brush — An interdental brush is a small, cone- or cylinder-shaped brush used to clean between teeth and around braces, bridges, or implants where regular floss may not reach effectively.
- Mouthwash — Mouthwash is a liquid oral rinse used to freshen breath, reduce plaque, prevent cavities, or treat specific conditions such as gingivitis or dry mouth.
- Night Guard — A custom-fitted appliance worn during sleep to protect teeth from grinding.
- Remineralization — Remineralization is the natural repair process in which minerals (mainly calcium and phosphate) are redeposited into early enamel lesions, reversing the first stage of tooth decay.
- Sealant — A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to fill in deep grooves and prevent cavities.
About prevention terminology
Preventive terminology shows up on nearly every recall visit, usually as a short code on a treatment plan.
These entries describe what each preventive measure does and how often it is repeated.