CARIO TERMINOLOGY Flashcards
Decay of teeth caused by bacterial activity that leads to demineralization of the tooth’s hard tissues.
Caries/ Cavities
A sticky film of bacteria and food debris that forms on the teeth and is a primary cause of caries and gum disease.
Plaque
Also a primary cause of caries and gum disease.
Plaque
Loss of minerals (like calcium and phosphate) from the tooth enamel due to acid produced by bacteria from the breakdown of sugar.
Demineralization
What minerals were lost from the tooth enamel during demineralization?
Calcium and Phosphates
The process by which minerals are returned to the molecular structure of the tooth. This can reverse early stages of decay.
Remineralization
This can reverse early stages of decay.
Remineralization
The hard, outermost layer of a tooth that protects it from decay.
Enamel
The layer beneath the enamel that contains microscopic tubules leading to the nerve of the tooth.
Dentin
The innermost part of the tooth containing blood vessels and nerves, which can become inflamed or infected if decay reaches this deep.
Pulp
Refers to substances (typically foods or bacteria) that promote the formation of caries.
Cariogenic
A condition caused by excessive ingestion of fluoride, leading to changes in tooth enamel, often appearing as white spots or streaks.
Fluorosis
The hard, outer protective layer of the tooth that is susceptible to decay but can remineralize.
Enamel
The layer beneath the enamel that is less hard and more sensitive to decay once the enamel is breached.
Dentin
A complex community of bacteria that live on surfaces in the mouth, such as teeth and gums, and contribute to dental caries and periodontal diseases.
Biofilm
A layer of the tooth that is susceptible to decay but can remineralize.
Enamel
The layer that is less hard and more sensitive to decay once the enamel is breached.
Dentin
The innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels; infections here can cause pain and require root canal therapy.
Pulp
Early signs of dental caries, appearing as opaque, white areas on the enamel due to subsurface demineralization.
White Spot Lesions
A more advanced stage of caries where there is a visible breakdown of the enamel, forming a cavity.
Cavitated Lesion
Early caries lesion where the enamel surface is intact but shows signs of demineralization.
Non-cavitated Lesion
Procedures that repair a decayed tooth, such as fillings, crowns, or root canals.
Restorative Treatment
Measures taken to prevent dental caries, such as the use of fluoride, dental sealants, and good oral hygiene practices.
Preventive Treatment
Thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent caries.
Sealants
