Preventative Dentistry and Oral health

Question 1

Dental Caries (tooth decay)

Answer 1

a progressive disease that demineralizes enamel, enters the dentin and quickly reaches the pulp of the tooth if not treated

Question 2

Bacteria in the mouth

Answer 2

metabolize sugars and give off toxins (acids) that dissolve or demineralize the calcium salts in the tooth

Question 3

Cariogenic

Answer 3

causes tooth decay (sugar)
the process can be stopped by removing the decay and replacing lost tooth structure with different dental materials (fillings

Question 4

Death of a tooth

Answer 4

Occurs when the decay is not stopped before it reaches the pulp of the tooth.
- options available are extraction or root canal (save the function of the tooth)

Question 5

Dental Plaque

Answer 5

Plaque is a sticky film on the teeth that consists of food debris, dead cells, bacteria, saliva and mucus

Question 6

Bacteria in plaque

Answer 6

produce acids after you eat or drink and these acids can destroy tooth enamel, causing decay

Question 7

removal of plaque

Answer 7

proper tooth brushing removes plaque from the surfaces.

proper flossing can remove plaque between the teeth.

Question 8

Gingivitis

Answer 8

• inflammation of the gingiva/gums
• caused by dental plaque
• causes irritation, redness, swelling and bleeding of the gums

Question 9

Periodontal Disease/Periodontitis

Answer 9

dental plaque can also develop under the gums on the tooth roots. This causes the breakdown of the bone that supports the teeth.
can result in abscesses, loose teeth, tooth loss

Question 10

Dental Tartar

Answer 10

When plaque becomes calcified, it forms Calculus or tartar

Question 11

Fluoride

Answer 11

a chemical compound that can reduce tooth decay.

- found in water supplies, toothpaste, mouth rinses, etc

Question 12

Recall/Check up Appointments

Answer 12

Often done every 6-9 mos
Exam of teeth and oral tissues
chart and id of suspected carious lesions
scaling to remove calculus/tartar
xrays taken to detect interproxial decay
teeth polishing (prophylaxis)

Question 13

Scaling

Answer 13

is the removal of calcified plaque also called calculus or tartar
- done with a metal hand instrument or ultrasonic scaler