Demineralisation

In general: decalcification; loss of minerals, e. g. calcium and phosphorus;in dentistry: decalcification of enamel; dissolving minerals out of the enamel by acid, which makes the enamel porous;

Regular use of fluoridated dental care products inhibits demineralisation and promotes remineralisation = caries protection. Usually the remineralisation of enamel is carried out by minerals contained in the saliva. A disturbed balance between demineralisation and remineralisation leads to caries.

Dental calculus; tartar

Calcified plaque; The deposit in the plaque of minerals contained in the saliva is the reason for calcification and the forming of dental calculus. Dental calculus can't be removed with a tooth brush, it has to be removed mechanically by a dentist or dental assistant.

Dental floss

means for cleaning interdental spaces

Dental fluorosis

Developmental defects of enamel resulting from long-ranging overdose of fluoride; Dental fluorosis mainly occurs in areas where the concentration of fluorides in drinking water exceeds 2 mg of fluoride per litre (mostly in areas with volcanic rocks). Dental fluorosis ranges in appearance from white flecks on the enamel (the mild form), to brown stains (the severe form). The severe form of dental fluorosis occurs in areas where the water supply is highly fluoridated or when an overdose of high-level concentrated fluoride supplements is taken. The risk of dental fluorosis, which often occurs on the front teeth, lasts approximately up to the age of seven. In Germany only the mild form of dental fluorosis appears. Dental fluorosis is a cosmetic issue, but not a health problem.

Dental pulp

A marrow-like soft tissue that builds the core of the tooth; contains numerous blood vessels and finest nerve endings which come up from the root apex; surrounded by dentine

Dental water jet

Removes food residues by a jet of water; A water jet cannot replace regular dental care with tooth brush, toothpaste and floss.

Dentine; dentin

Belongs together with enamel and cementum to the hard tooth tissues and forms the bulk of them.
Dentine surrounds the pulp and is covered by enamel in the crown area and by cementum in the root area.

Dentition

All the teeth in the upper and lower jaw

Denture adhesives, denture adhesive cream

Used to fit dentures properly and to hold them in place tightly;
denture adhesives are available as powder, paste, cream or liquid