Tablet fluoridation

A form of systemic fluoride supplementation; fluoride application by resorption through the alimentary canal (gastrointestinal tract) and spreading through the blood

Tooth, teeth

Latin: dens, dentes; Teeth like bones belong to the body's hard tissue. The set of all teeth builds the dentition.

The permanent dentition of an adult consists of 28 to 32 teeth depending on whether there are wisdom teeth (8 incisors, 4 canines, 8 premolars, and 8-12 molars). The milk dentition consists of 20 teeth only.

Structure

Each tooth consists of a crown (projecting above the gum) and a root (underneath the gum). The transition from the crown to the root is called the neck.

Teeth are not coalesced with the bone. They are held in place for being suspended in the tooth socket (alveolus) by a fibrous connective-tissue layer (periodontium) which surrounds the tooth. This enables teeth to resist hits and prevents them from breaking when we bite on a stone in our food.

Tooth crown

Corona dentis; the upper part of the tooth above the gum which is covered by enamel

Tooth neck

Situated between crown and root and covered by gums

Tooth root

The part of the tooth that is covered by root cement and anchored to the tooth socket (the dental alveolus); There are teeth with one, two or more roots.

Toothpaste

The most important means of dental care; increases the cleaning effect of a toothbrush; removes plaque and supports the remineralisation and hardening of the enamel if fluoridated; provides a fresh taste;

It's important to use a toothpaste containing fluorides right from the occurrence of the first milk tooth on.