Oral Vocabulary

Acid Foods

Highly acid foods can cause dental erosion, which is the irreversible loss of tooth structure. These foods include soft drinks, which contain phosphoric acid. Fruits and fruit juices, which contain citric acid. Yoghurts, which contain lactic acid and sweeteners containing sugar.

 

Baby’s Teething

Babies suffer from sore gums during the teething process that begins at 6 months of age. Signs of teething include drooling, irritability and sore, tender gums. You can relieve pain and discomfort by gently massaging your baby’s gums with a damp washcloth. Your baby can nibble a cooled rubber teething ring for relief.

 

Baby’s Tooth

Also called milk teeth. Dentition usually begins between 6 months and 1 year when the first teeth erupt. Birth teeth are also called primary teeth and a child will have 20 milk teeth. Baby’s last teeth will erupt at the age of 3 years.

 

Bad Breath

Smelly breathing, usually caused by the degradation of food. Other culprits include poor dental hygiene, dry mouth, disease, infection, smoking and a strict diet.

 

Calcium

Calcium, along with vitamin D and other vitamins and minerals, is essential for good oral health and a healthy body. Calcium is found naturally in dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt, and can be taken as a supplement to prevent osteoarthritis.

 

Canker Sores

Swelling, stains or sores on the mouth, lips or tongue. Unlike cold sores, these are not contagious and are usually caused by stress, allergies or vitamin deficiencies.

 

Cavity

Tooth decay caused by bacteria that break down sugar into acid. Early decay, called tooth decay, can be prevented with fluoride.

 

Cavity Prevention

Regular, thorough brushing with fluoride-enriched toothpaste reduces plaque build-up on the tooth surface and strengthens teeth. Foods and carbohydrates with a high sugar content increase the risk of developing cavities because plaque bacteria will use them as food to produce acids that dissolve tooth enamel.

 

Dental Check-Up

Examinations almost always include a thorough cleaning, either by a dentist or a dental hygienist. Using special instruments, a dental hygienist scrapes below the gumline, removing accumulated plaque and tartar that can cause gum disease, cavities, bad breath and other problems. The dentist or hygienist can also polish and floss.

 

Dental Floss

Use a special floss like material to remove plaque and food particles where a toothbrush can’t reach easily – below the gum line and between your teeth. Because plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, daily flossing is highly recommended.

 

Dental Plaque

Plaque that has hardened on the teeth. Tartar can form at and below the gum line and damage teeth and gums.

 

Dental Sensitivity

When you eat hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods, drinks or air make your teeth sensitive to pain. Sensitivity is usually caused by exposed dentine due to gingivorrhea or periodontal disease.

 

Dentine

The porous layer of the tooth that protects the nerve. When this layer is exposed, it can cause tooth sensitivity.

 

Dentures

Replacements for missing teeth that can be removed and put back in the mouth. Available in complete or partial sets, today’s dentures are natural and comfortable.

 

Descaling

A technique to remove plaque, biofilm and tartar from the teeth and below the gums. This can help reverse the effects of gum disease. The final molars emerge at the back of the jaw, sometimes with little space to emerge. This can cause tenderness, swelling, pain and disease. Many people choose to have these teeth removed.

 

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth (xerostomia) describes the condition of not having enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. Without enough saliva, tooth decay or other infections can be developed in the mouth. You may also not get the nutrients you need if you cannot chew and swallow certain foods.

 

Enamel

Dental enamel is the hardest and most mineralized substance in the body and one of the four main tissues that make up a tooth. It is the visible tooth tissue, which is supported by the dentin underneath.

 

Erosion

Enamel wear due to a chemical acid process. This acid could be gastric or diet-related.

 

Filling

Also called dental filling, it is a means of restoring a tooth damaged by disintegration to its normal function and shape. When a dentist gives you a filling, he first removes the decayed tooth material, cleans the affected area, and then fills the cleaned cavity with a filling material.

 

Fluoride

A natural mineral found in water and the earth’s crust. Helps prevent cavities by hardening the enamel.

 

Gingivitis

Inflamed gum tissue caused by bacteria on dental plaque. Mild gingivitis causes little or no pain. You may not notice it. If nothing is done, it can become serious. For some people, gingivitis develops into periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.

 

Glossodynie

Otherwise known as burning mouth syndrome, it is a painful oral condition that affects the tongue, gums, lips, inner cheeks and roof of the mouth. The primary cause of Burning Mouth Syndrome may be related to taste and sensory nerve problems and the secondary cause may be related to nutritional deficiency, dry mouth, food allergies and certain medications.

 

Gums

Gums are the soft tissue lining that surrounds the teeth and covers the upper and lower jaw bones in the mouth. When healthy, gum tissue is usually pink. When inflammation occurs, the tissue can become red, inflamed and bleed.

 

Gums Bleed

Gums may bleed after brushing or flossing, but persistent bleeding is not normal. If bleeding occurs frequently when you brush or floss your teeth, it could be a sign of gingivitis, or an inflammation of the gums, which is caused by the development of the biofilm of plaque. It is recommended that you consult your dentist for an oral examination and professional cleaning.

 

Gums Illness

An inflammation of the gum tissue that could affect the teeth and support the bone. Plaque bacteria, acids and certain foods contribute to the development of gum disease.

 

Gums Recession

The gingival recession results from periodontitis, a more serious form of the gum disease when the loss of the supporting bone leads to a bacterial infection. The gum tissue moves away from the teeth and can expose the roots underneath. This often leads to increased sensitivity to the newly exposed tooth and roots. Gingival recession can also be caused by brushing too hard.

 

Halitosis

The professional term for bad breath. Can be caused by poor dental hygiene, infection, diet, dry mouth or disease.

 

Hygienist

A licensed and trained dental professional to clean teeth, take x-rays and perform other services.

 

Hypersensitivity

Painful sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet and acidic foods and drinks. Typically caused by exposed root areas of the tooth.

 

Mouthwash

There are several types of over-the-counter and prescription rinse products available. These types of mouth rinses may contain fluoride to fight tooth decay, antibacterial ingredients to fight plaque and gingivitis, and other ingredients that can reduce tartar formation or whiten teeth.

 

Oral Bacteria

The human mouth contains many types of oral bacteria, both good and bad. Some bacteria in the mouth perform important functions that help keep your mouth healthy. Unfortunately, some bacteria can also damage teeth. Two strains of bacteria found in the mouth are particularly destructive: Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli. When these and other types of bacteria are allowed to thrive, they produce acid that causes tooth decay. Other oral bacteria that cause periodontal disease are actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, prophyromonas gingivalis, and bacteriodes forsythus. It is very important to brush and floss daily to avoid cavities and gum inflammation caused by the oral bacteria that develop in the mouth.

 

Oral Hygiene

Daily oral care for the health of the mouth and teeth. Good oral hygiene includes brushing, flossing, eating healthy foods and regular visits to the dentist.

 

Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that diagnoses, prevents and treats irregularities of the teeth and face, including the position of the teeth and jaws. Orthodontic care involves the use of braces.

 

Orthodontist

A dentist who specializes in the field of orthodontics and treats irregularities of the teeth and face. An orthodontist will diagnose and create braces for the teeth to correct these irregularities.

 

Periodontal Disease

From simple gum inflammation to severe disease that causes significant damage to the soft tissues and bones that support the teeth.

 

Periodontal Tissues

The soft and hard tissues that surround and support the teeth in the jaw. They include the gums that cover the jawbone and support the tooth structure inside the alveolar bone, the periodontal ligament (fibres that hold the teeth attached to the jaw) and the bone (alveolar) to which the teeth are attached.

 

Periodontitis

Untreated gingivitis. A serious infection characterized by swollen and tender gums. Periodontitis destroys tissues and bones. This disease could eventually lead to a loss of teeth.

 

Plaque

Invisible masses of harmful germs that live in the mouth and stick to the teeth. Plaque can lead to gum disease and destroy gum tissue and teeth.

 

Remineralization

Recover the minerals lost inside the enamel crystals with fluoride. These minerals are lost due to bacteria that feed on sugars in the mouth and create acids.

 

Saliva

This substance helps digestion, protects the teeth and prevents infection. Saliva is also used to chew and swallow food.

 

Teething

The period during which a baby’s primary teeth erupt. During the first few years of life, the first 20 teeth will erupt through the gums, which can cause irritability and discomfort.

 

Thrush

Thrush is a fungal infection that appears as red or white patches that develop in the mouth. It usually occurs on the tongue and the inner side of the cheeks, but can spread to the roof of the mouth, gums, tonsils or even the back of the throat. Symptoms include white sores, loss of taste, bleeding if the sores are scratched or rubbed, and pain and cracking at the corners of the mouth.

 

Tongue Cleaning

Although a toothbrush can be used, tongue scrapers are much more effective at literally scraping plaque, food debris and bacteria from the tongue.

 

Tooth Whitening

A procedure to lighten teeth and remove stains and discoloration. Whitening must be maintained over time.

 

Tooth Brushing

Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes helps remove food particles that can damage teeth and gums over time.

 

Tooth Greying

Stains on the surface or changes in the dental material change the color of the tooth. These include extrinsic, intrinsic and age-related discoloration.

 

Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives for effective stain removal for improved whitening.

Kid’s Corner

0-2 YEARS OLD, FIRST TEETH

TEETHING

Dentition is a long stage that begins as early as the 7th month of pregnancy (in the womb) and usually ends around the age of 2 years. This stage represents for the child one of the first places of great pain.

 

SYMPTOMS OF THE FIRST TEETHING : WHY DOES IT HURT ?

Before the first tooth comes out, pressure is exerted on the gums by the teeth, which gradually drill through to emerge. This generally leads to great nervousness but above all to inflammation, which manifests itself as a red swelling in the infant’s gums. The baby “doubles its gums”.

 

GINGIVAL MASSAGE

The gum massage is a pleasant gesture for the baby. It stimulates the gums, soothes the pain, helps to reduce inflammation and relaxes the baby from the irritation that can cause teething.

The soft and creamy texture of BUCCOTHERM® Teething gel facilitates and improves the massage gesture, while bringing the effectiveness of its natural active ingredients to calm and soothe the discomforts associated with teething.

Certified Organic, BUCCOTHERM® Teething gel offers a unique formula based on natural ingredients to take care of baby’s mouth.

What BUCCOTHERM® does for infants :

The appearance of a child’s first teeth is an event in the life of every parent.

  • BUCCOTHERM® innovates by integrating the properties of a recognized thermal spring water into a gum balm and thus offers one of the least aggressive treatments for babies.
  • The combination of this Thermal Spring water with natural extracts of Chamomile and Marshmallow effectively soothes gum pain in complete safety.

 

2-6 YEARS OLD, MILK TEETH

THE FORMATION OF MILK TEETH

The first teeth are temporary teeth, called “milk teeth“. They have a very special appearance: very white, small, tight and fragile (their roots are not yet completely calcified). Their very rounded shape, especially in the molars, encourages the formation of plaque in the tooth neck. The enamel of milk teeth, being less thick and more porous than that of permanent teeth, the carious lesion spreads more quickly.

 

THE PROTECTION OF MILK TEETH

Between 1 and 3 years, a single brushing before bedtime is sufficient. From 4 years old, the child can brush alone twice a day. The correct gesture must be done from the gum to the tooth, without forgetting the internal face. Parents must make sure that the child brushes effectively and does not swallow the toothpaste, allowing him to become more and more independent.

 

FLUORIDE

Fluoride is a trace element that is a constituent of the human skeleton and dental tissue. It strengthens the dental enamel and protects the teeth from caries by limiting demineralization and acid attacks. To avoid changes in the structure of the enamel (such as fluorosis, i.e. white or yellow stains on the teeth), fluoride must be dosed carefully. Dentists recommend 500 ppm fluoride for 2 – 6 years.
Even if baby teeth have only a short life, they should not be neglected. Healthy and complete teeth are essential for good chewing, nutrition and the placement of permanent teeth.

Because not all children have the same tastes, BUCCOTHERM® offers 2 pleasant flavors (mango and strawberry) for a customized choice.

 

ORGANIC AND FLUORIDE-FREE TOOTHPASTE

BUCCOTHERM® offers a certified organic and fluoride free toothpaste, designed for children from 3 years old. Enriched with Castéra-Verduzan Thermal Spring Water, it helps to fight acid attacks and take care of the gums.

Its natural aroma to the taste red fruits will delight the smallest.

Fluoride is an element naturally present in our body. Used in very small quantities, it can help fight against cavities. On the other hand an excess of fluorine leads to the appearance of fluorosis. At an early stage this pathology is characterized by the appearance of opaque stains on the teeth. On the other hand, an aggravated fluorosis leads to brown stains on almost the entire dentition.

 

7-12 YEARS OLD, PERMANENT TEETH

PROTECTION OF PERMANENT TEETH

The fall of the milk teeth is caused by the appearance of the permanent teeth positioned under the milk teeth. Contrary to the pushing of the first teeth, the pushing of the permanent teeth is not painful. This fall is done in the same order for all children: the median incisors fall first (around 6 years old), followed by the lateral incisors, the first molars, the canines and finally the second molars.

 

BRUSHING OF PERMANENT TEETH

As soon as the first permanent teeth appear, it is necessary to change toothpaste and toothbrush. New teeth require a toothbrush adapted to their size and position, and a higher fluoride dosage than for children under 6 years of age. From this age, brushing after each meal becomes essential and must last at least 3 minutes.

 

FLUORIDE

Fluoride is a trace element that is a constituent of the human skeleton and dental tissue. It strengthens the dental enamel and protects the teeth from caries by limiting demineralization and acid attacks. To avoid changes in the structure of the enamel (such as fluorosis, i.e. white or yellow stains on the teeth), fluoride must be dosed carefully. Dentists recommend 1450 ppm fluoride for 7 – 12 year olds.

 

THE FIRST VISIT TO THE DENTIST

One visit per year for a routine examination is then essential.

 

TIPS & TRICKS

FLUORINATED RECOMMENDATIONS

Fluorine is used to stop demineralization processes. It is the only element unanimously recognized to protect against caries. The best way to absorb fluoride in the mouth is through toothpaste, so that it is well positioned on the tooth.

However, fluoride is only good for teeth if the doses prescribed by the pediatrician are respected. Too much fluoride can damage the enamel and cause irreversible white stains on the teeth. That’s why the pediatrician should be familiar with certain habits, such as using fluoridated salt and toothpaste or drinking fluoride-rich water.

According to expert recommendations :

  • Children 2 to 6 years old require a fluoride dosage of 500 ppm.
  • Children 7 to 12 years old require a fluoride dosage of 1450 ppm.
  • For daily use, the recommended dosage for adults is between 1000 and 1450 ppm. The ideal dosage is 1450 ppm.

The ANSM also recommends a fluorinated test in children.

 

BEFORE 2 YEARS (OR THE APPEARANCE OF THE FIRST TOOTH)

  • Protect the baby’s first teeth by cleaning them twice a day, for example in the morning after breakfast and in the evening before bedtime, using a cotton swab or compress soaked in BUCCOTHERM® Dental Spray.
  • The first teeth can also be brushed with a toothbrush with extra soft bristles so as not to damage the delicate enamel of babies, and only with water, as the child cannot yet spit out the tooth.
  • Avoid the prolonged use of bottles, which exposes teeth to sweet liquids and increases the risk of cavities.
  • Avoid giving fruit juice or sugary drinks before bedtime. Prefer water.

BETWEEN 2 AND 4 YEARS OLD (AS SOON AS THE FIRST TEETH APPEAR)

  • From the age of 2, parents must establish a daily hygiene ritual (once a day before bedtime) by allowing the child to become more and more independent as he brushes.
  • From the age of 3, the child will brush his teeth twice a day for 2 minutes.
  • To encourage your child to brush his teeth, do it at the same time as he does, so he will want to do like the “big kids”.
  • Limit the amount of toothpaste you put on his toothbrush, with soft bristles, to one drop of product.