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Dental sealants

Thin clear or white coating applied to pits and fissures of teeth to prevent decay (occlusal surfaces)

Disclosing agent

Coloring agent to make plaque visible when applied to the teeth

Fluoride Varnish

Concentrated form of optical fluoride applied to teeth that are at a high risk of developing caries

Pontic

An artificial tooth on a dental bridge

Preventive dentistry

Practice of caring for your teeth to keep them heathy

Systemic fluoride

Fluoride that is ingested, such as drinking water

Topical fluoride

Fluoride applied directly to the teeth, like toothpaste

Hypersensitivity

Extreme sensitivity of the teeth, such as to hot or cold

Xylitol

A sugar substitute that may prevent tooth decay

What does ‘partners in prevention mean’?

It means that partnership must be formed between the dental healthcare team and patient to prevent disease (education, fluorides, nutrition, etc.)

What are the education guidelines?

Listen to patient, initial instruction, assess patient motivation and needs, select home cleaning aids, keep instruction simple

Why is seeking dental care during pregnancy important?

Number of systemic disease could affect the mother or the child, such as low preterm birth weight

What specifically can happen to a baby's gums if they are not brushed?

Hey can accumulate plaque and tartar

How much toothpaste should be used?

Pea sized dab

What are three age

related dental changes?

What are three age

related (disease) pathology related conditions

What does vitality mean?

Life

What is demineralization?

The removal of phosphate and calcium minerals from the teeth

What is remineralization?

The addition of phosphate and calcium minerals to the teeth

What are 4 ways of receiving fluoride?

Prescription strength (in office), non

What are sources of systemic fluoride?

Bottled water, meat, vegetables, tea, fish, etc.

What are sources of topical fluoride?

Fluoridated toothpastes, mouth rinses, gels, foams, varnishes

What is preeruptive development?

Before a tooth erupts, a fluid filled sac surrounds it. Systemic fluoride in the fluid strengthens enamel, making it more resistant to acid.

What is posteruptive development?

After the eruption! Fluoride continues to enter enamel and alters the structure of crystals. Crystals are less acid soluble (able to be dissolved), requiring systemic and topical fluoride for remineralization.

What is chronic overexposure to fluoride?

Excessive exposure to fluoride, results in dental fluorosis and mottled teeth (discoloration, white)

What is acute overdosage of fluoride?

Drinking a ton at one time, may result in death but it happening is rare

What is the fluoride needs assessment?

Evaluate patients current fluoride intake and to see how much they need based on individual basis (risk factors, communication, etc.)

What are the major effects of water fluoride?

Topical

Why is topical better sometimes?

Once your teeth have developed, it’s typically the best way

Is fluoridated water dangerous?

No because it’s given in such small amounts.

Why is bottled water not equal to tap water?

Some don’t even contain fluoride or if they do, they have below the optimal level.

What types of things are prepared with fluoride (systemic)

Processed foods and beverages